AMSTELVEEN: Pakistan ended their 16-year wait for a victory at the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup on Saturday, defeating Japan 4-3 in a thrilling 9th-16th place classification match at Wagener Stadium.
The victory was Pakistan’s first at the World Cup since the 2010 edition, when they defeated Spain 2-1. It also provided a much-needed boost to the Green Shirts, who returned to the tournament after an eight-year absence.
Pakistan had struggled in the main round, losing to England and arch-rivals India while managing only one point from a 3-3 draw against Wales. The results meant they failed to progress to the next stage and were subsequently placed in the classification round.
Japan made a flying start to Saturday’s contest, scoring twice in the opening quarter through Hyota Yamada and Kaito Tanaka to establish a 2-0 lead.
Pakistan gradually found their rhythm and pulled a goal back in the second quarter when Rana Waheed Ashraf found the net, leaving Japan 2-1 ahead at halftime.
Ashraf struck again just two minutes into the third quarter to bring Pakistan level. Muhammad Hammadudin then completed the turnaround a minute later, putting Pakistan 3-2 in front.
Japan responded quickly, with Koji Yamasaki scoring two minutes later to restore parity at 3-3.
The decisive goal came in the 40th minute when Hannan Shahid fired Pakistan ahead once again.
Japan pushed hard for an equaliser during the closing stages, but Pakistan’s defence held firm. Neither team managed to score again, allowing the Green Shirts to secure a memorable 4-3 victory.
The win ended Pakistan’s 16-year drought at the hockey World Cup. The team had failed to qualify for the 2014 edition and remained without a victory at the 2018 tournament.
Pakistan’s return to the World Cup after an eight-year absence, coupled with Saturday’s comeback victory, allows the team to finish their campaign on a positive note.
