China Edges Out Pakistan in Asian Hockey Champions Trophy Semi-Final
HULUNBUIR CITY – In a thrilling semi-final clash of the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy 2024, China defeated Pakistan 2-0 in a penalty shoot-out at the Moqi Hockey Training Base on Monday. The match ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time, but Pakistan faltered in the shoot-out, missing all their penalty attempts.
China’s precision in the shoot-out allowed them to score two goals and secure their spot in the final. Pakistan’s journey in the tournament ended with this loss, despite their strong performance throughout the group stages.
During the group stages, Pakistan’s only defeat came against arch-rivals India, who edged them out 2-1 in a closely contested match. Pakistan initially took the lead in that game with a goal from Nadeem, assisted by Hannan Shahid. However, India equalized through a penalty corner converted by skipper Harmanpreet Singh and later took the lead with another goal by Harmanpreet.
Despite relentless efforts from both sides, the remaining two quarters of the match saw no additional goals. India’s 2-1 victory ensured they topped the group standings with 15 points, winning all their group-stage matches. Pakistan, with two wins and two draws before their defeat to India, advanced to the semi-finals.
In their semi-final match, Pakistan had previously secured a strong position by defeating China 5-1 in their final group-stage game. Abdul Rehman opened the scoring, followed by two goals each from Nadeem Ahmed and Hannan Shahid, showcasing Pakistan’s attacking prowess.
This semi-final loss marks the end of Pakistan’s campaign in the 2024 Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, as China advances to the final.
