Pakistan booked their place in the semifinals of the Men’s Under-18 Asia Cup Hockey Tournament with a convincing 5-2 victory over Bangladesh in a lively group-stage encounter played in Kakamigahara, Japan, on Wednesday.
The tournament, organised by the Asian Hockey Federation, is being held from May 29 to June 6 in Japan.
Pakistan made a dominant start, opening the scoring as early as the third minute through Abdullah, who returned later in the match to double his personal tally. Adeel, Asam and Muhammad Yahya contributed one goal each to complete a commanding five-goal haul. Bangladesh pulled back through Tarik Islam and Monna Islam, but never threatened to overturn Pakistan’s firm grip on the contest.
Muhammad Yahya was named Player of the Match for his all-round contribution, capping an industrious performance that reflected the team’s collective energy and attacking intent throughout.
In the semifinals Pakistan will face arch-rivals India on June 5 in what promises to be a fiercely contested and eagerly anticipated showdown.
Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani congratulated the players and team management on the result, praising their discipline, determination and quality of play. He credited the achievement to the tireless efforts of players, coaches and support staff, who he said were working with singular focus to restore Pakistan hockey’s lost glory on the international stage.
Wani described the semifinal qualification as a significant milestone for junior hockey development in the country and expressed confidence that the team would carry its winning momentum all the way to the final.
Pakistan’s junior team is receiving support from Alaska Batteries and PTCL.