Pakistan secured their first win in the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy with a 2-1 victory over Japan on Wednesday at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia, China.
Nadeem Ahmed scored Pakistan’s opening goal in the first quarter, but Japan quickly equalized in the second quarter. Sufyan Khan then restored Pakistan’s lead with a goal in the 10th minute of the second quarter, which ultimately proved to be the winning score.
Before this win, Pakistan’s first two matches in the tournament ended in draws. In their match against South Korea on Monday, Pakistan led by two goals in the fourth quarter, thanks to Hanan Shahid’s quick goals. However, South Korea managed to level the game in the final moments, resulting in a 2-2 draw.
Similarly, Pakistan’s opening game against Malaysia on Sunday also ended in a 2-2 draw, despite a competitive performance from both sides.
Looking ahead, Pakistan will face China on September 12, followed by a crucial match against India on September 14.
Pakistan’s Asian Champions Trophy Schedule:
- vs Malaysia (2-2) — September 8
- vs South Korea (2-2) — September 9
- vs Japan (2-1) — September 11
- vs China — September 12
- vs India — September 14
