Pakistan’s under-18 hockey team has made the nation proud by securing a spot in the final of the U-18 Asia Cup Hockey Tournament after a nail-biting victory over Malaysia in the semi-final held in Dazhou, China, on Friday.
The Green Shirts showcased remarkable resilience and skill in an intense and high-stakes clash, which ended in a dramatic penalty shootout after both teams were tied at the end of regulation time. The final will see Pakistan take on Japan on Sunday, who advanced after defeating Bangladesh 6-4 in the other semi-final.
A Match to Remember
The semi-final began with Pakistan dominating early on. In the first eight minutes, they stunned Malaysia by netting two goals. The opening goal came from Abdullah off a well-executed penalty corner, followed by a clinical finish from Shahbaz Hassan, doubling the lead and putting Pakistan firmly in control.
However, Malaysia made a strong comeback, scoring three quick goals, turning the tables to lead the game 3-2. Pakistan, refusing to be discouraged, fought back with determination. Shahbaz Hassan once again rose to the occasion, scoring his second goal of the match to equalize the score at 3-3.
Despite repeated efforts from both sides, neither team could score again in regulation time, pushing the game into a penalty shootout.
The Shootout Thriller
Pakistan began the penalty shootout with poise, converting their first three attempts, while Malaysia faltered on one, giving Pakistan an early edge with a 3-2 lead. However, the momentum swung once again when Pakistan missed their fourth attempt, leveling the score.
In a tense final moment, Hanzala Ali stepped up and scored for Pakistan in the fifth round, restoring the lead. Then came the defining moment of the match—Pakistan’s goalkeeper, Ghulam Mustafa, made a stunning save on Malaysia’s final penalty shot, securing Pakistan’s spot in the final.
Heroes of the Match
Ghulam Mustafa, the goalkeeper, was undoubtedly the hero of the day. His incredible performance in the shootout, particularly saving two crucial penalties, was instrumental in Pakistan’s victory. Ghulam is a product of the Khawaja Junaid Hockey Academy in Lahore, and his stellar performance reflects the quality training being provided at the grassroots level.
Shahbaz Hassan, with two goals in regulation time, also played a vital role in keeping Pakistan in the game, while Abdullah’s early goal set the tone for the match.
National Leaders Congratulate the Team
Following the victory, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif extended heartfelt congratulations to the young team for their incredible achievement and expressed best wishes for the final.
Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Tariq Bugti, Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) Director General Yasir Pirzada, and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi also sent their felicitations, praising the team’s grit and performance.
The final against Japan, scheduled for Sunday, promises to be a tough contest. Japan has also been in top form throughout the tournament, as shown by their high-scoring victory over Bangladesh in the semis.
With momentum on their side and national pride at stake, the Green Shirts will be looking to maintain their composure and deliver another stellar performance to clinch the Asia Cup title.
This tournament has already highlighted the bright future of Pakistan hockey, with young players stepping up on the big stage and displaying immense talent, passion, and professionalism. Sunday’s final could mark a new beginning for Pakistan’s resurgence in international hockey.