Pakistan geared up for their crucial clash against India in the Hero Asian Champions Trophy 2024 with a resounding 5-1 victory over the host nation China on Thursday, September 12. The match took place at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir, and Pakistan's emphatic win elevated them to second place in the points table. This result keeps them firmly in contention for a semifinal spot as the league stage nears its end.
The match saw a standout performance from Pakistan's attacking lineup. Rehman Abdul opened the scoring with a field goal in the 23rd minute, setting the tone for the game. Ahmad Nadeem played a crucial role, adding two more goals for Pakistan—in the 36th and 56th minutes. Hannan Shahid also made his mark with two goals of his own, scoring in the 46th and 60th minutes. China's only goal came from Jiesheng Gao, who converted a penalty corner in the 48th minute.
The game began with a flurry of activity from China, who capitalized on their home advantage. The Chinese team made six circle entries and had four shots on goal during the first quarter. However, Pakistan's defense held strong, and the quarter ended in a goalless stalemate. Pakistan emerged with greater intensity in the second quarter, creating several scoring opportunities. They earned their first penalty corner but were unable to convert it. Nevertheless, Rehman Abdul's field goal gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead.
Pakistan's dominance continued as Ahmad Nadeem doubled the lead with a goal in the 36th minute. Despite a missed penalty stroke—saved impressively by Chinese goalkeeper Weihao Wang—Pakistan's control over the game remained unchallenged. They extended their lead further in the 46th minute with a penalty corner. A clever variation in the play saw Abu Mahmood's drag-flick met by Hannan Shahid, whose deflected shot left Wang with no chance.
China managed to get on the scoreboard in the 48th minute with a penalty corner goal from Gao. Despite this, Pakistan maintained its composure and continued to press. Both teams had opportunities from penalty corners in the closing minutes, but Pakistan was the only team to capitalize. Nadeem's second goal in the 56th minute and Shahid's second goal in the 60th minute sealed the 5-1 victory for Pakistan.
With this win, Pakistan secured their position as a strong contender in the tournament. India currently leads the points table, followed by Pakistan in second place. Korea occupies the third spot, while Malaysia has moved ahead of China. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the upcoming match between Pakistan and India on September 14, which promises to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for both teams' semifinal aspirations.
Â
