Pakistan secured a place in the Men’s FIH Hockey World Cup after an eight-year wait by defeating Japan 4–3 in the semi-final of the qualifiers.
Goals for Pakistan national field hockey team were scored by Imad Muhammad, Abu Bakar Mahmood, Sufyan Khan and Afraz, each finding the net once. After scoring only one goal in the first quarter, Pakistan staged a remarkable comeback with three goals in the fourth quarter. Following the dramatic victory, players performed Sajda (prostration) in gratitude.
Goalkeeper Ali Raza played a crucial role late in the match by stopping a penalty stroke. With just four minutes remaining, Japan was awarded a penalty, but Raza blocked the attempt, helping Pakistan secure the win, advance to the final and confirm their place in the World Cup.
Mohiuddin Wani, president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, congratulated the team on their achievement and said the players performed “excellently in nervous competition.”
Meanwhile, Mohsin Naqvi, chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, also praised the players, saying they showed outstanding performance throughout the tournament.
He added that the success was the result of teamwork and hard work, noting that the impressive display by the entire squad, including captain Imad Shakeel Butt, was commendable. Pakistan will now face England in the final of the Hockey World Cup qualifiers.
