Shafaqna Pakistan: Pakistan’s junior hockey team booked a place in the Men’s Junior Hockey Asia Cup semi-finals after producing a remarkable comeback to beat Malaysia 5-2 in their Pool B clash.
Malaysia started strongly, taking the lead in the ninth minute through Muhammad Salehi. Pakistan struggled to create scoring opportunities during the opening two quarters, allowing Malaysia to maintain their 1-0 advantage at halftime.
Pakistan came out with renewed attacking intent after the break and turned the match around in the third quarter. Nadeem Khan equalised in the 32nd minute before Abdullah Sami Rana scored four minutes later to give Pakistan a 2-1 lead.
Pakistan then tightened their grip on the match through an outstanding display by Rana Waleed, who scored two goals in quick succession in the 39th and 40th minutes, extending Pakistan’s advantage to 4-1.
The scoring spree continued in the 41st minute when Ali Hamza struck Pakistan’s fifth goal, completing a remarkable period in which the national side scored five times in just nine minutes.
Malaysia managed to reduce the deficit in the 54th minute through Gunaseelan Dheeresh, but Pakistan maintained control until the final whistle to seal a convincing 5-2 victory.
Rana Waleed finished the match with two goals, while Ali Hamza was named Player of the Match for his performance.
Pakistan have now registered their third victory of the tournament and remain unbeaten, with the latest result confirming their qualification for the semi-finals.
Pakistan Hockey Federation President Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani congratulated the junior team and management on the victory and expressed hope that the players would maintain their winning momentum in the upcoming matches.
Source: Dunya News
