(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Pakistan Set to Face India in Hockey Asia Cup U18 Semi-Final
Pakistan will take on India in the semi-final of the Men’s U18 Asia Cup 2026 after both teams secured strong performances in their respective group stages.
The high-profile encounter is scheduled for Friday, June 5.
Group Stage Performances
India booked their place in the semi-final after a commanding 13–1 victory over Chinese Taipei in their final group match. Despite the big win, India finished second in Pool A behind Japan, who remained unbeaten.
Pakistan, meanwhile, topped Pool B with six points, finishing ahead of Malaysia on goal difference. This result earned them a place in the semi-final against India.
Pakistan’s Strong Run
Pakistan qualified for the knockout stage after a solid 5–2 win over Bangladesh in their final group match.
Abdullah Awan gave Pakistan an early lead, while Bangladesh responded quickly to level the score. The match remained competitive in the first half before Pakistan took control in the second half.
Key goals from Adeel, Haider Asam, and Abdullah Awan helped Pakistan secure the victory, with a late strike sealing the 5–2 result.
Semi-Final Showdown
With both teams showing strong form in the tournament, the Pakistan vs India semi-final is expected to be a closely contested match.
Pakistan will aim to continue their winning momentum, while India will look to build on their dominant group-stage performance.
