(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Edge Past Malaysia in Thrilling Shootout to Reach U18 Hockey Asia Cup Final
Pakistan’s U18 hockey team has secured a spot in the final of the Hockey Asia Cup 2025 after a nail-biting shootout victory against Malaysia, following a dramatic 3-3 draw in regulation time.
Fast Start, Fierce Fightback
The Green Shirts started strongly, with Abdullah Awan converting a penalty corner in the 5th minute, quickly followed by another penalty corner goal from Shahbaz Hassan in the 8th minute, giving Pakistan an early 2-0 lead.
However, Malaysia mounted an impressive comeback, powered by a hat-trick from Muhammad Safwan, who struck three times from penalty corners in the 10th, 18th, and 28th minutes, flipping the match in their favor.
Pakistan Stay Resilient
Despite falling behind 3-2, Pakistan refused to back down. Shahbaz Hassan once again came to the rescue, scoring a well-executed field goal in the 40th minute to level the match and take it to a penalty shootout.
Heroic Goalkeeping Seals the Win
In the high-pressure shootout, goalkeeper Mustafa Ghulam became the hero, making two crucial saves, including a decisive stop against Malaysia’s Azrul Izz Ilhan. Pakistan edged Malaysia in the shootout and earned their place in the final.
Final Showdown Awaits
With this thrilling win, Pakistan will face Japan in the U18 Asia Cup final, setting the stage for an exciting title clash. The young squad has impressed with their grit and determination and now stand just one win away from continental glory.
✅ Key Highlights:
-
Pakistan 3-3 Malaysia (Pakistan win in shootout)
-
Abdullah Awan and Shahbaz Hassan scored early goals
-
Muhammad Safwan scored all three goals for Malaysia
-
Mustafa Ghulam made two vital saves in the shootout
-
Final: Pakistan vs Japan
