India Beat Pakistan 4-3 in Asian Games Hockey Semi-Final

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

India defeated Pakistan 4-3 in a thrilling men’s hockey semi-final at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, ending Pakistan’s hopes of reaching the title match.

The match at Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium started with India taking control of the game. Harmanpreet Singh converted two penalty corners in the opening quarter to give India a 2-0 advantage.

Pakistan fought back in the second quarter when Abu Mahmood scored to reduce the deficit to 2-1 before the interval.

India extended their lead again in the third quarter through Sukhjeet Singh. Pakistan then produced an impressive comeback, with Ammad Butt scoring in the 38th minute before Hannan Shahid equalised in the 45th minute.

The momentum shifted further in Pakistan’s favour when Waheed Rana scored in the 49th minute, putting his side 4-3 ahead.

India responded strongly in the final stages of the match. Abhishek scored in the 60th minute to restore India’s lead and secure a place in the final.

India enjoyed 54 percent possession and both teams won seven penalty corners during the contest.

Harmanpreet Singh was the standout scorer for India with two goals, while Sukhjeet Singh and Abhishek contributed one goal each.

India will face the winner of the second semi-final between Malaysia and South Korea in the Asian Games hockey final.