ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s national hockey team advanced to the final of the FIH Hockey Nations Cup after a thrilling 3-2 penalty shootout victory over France in the first semi-final on Friday in Kuala Lumpur.
The game had ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw in regulation time before Pakistan held their nerve in the shootout, thanks to outstanding goalkeeping and composed finishing.
The International Hockey Federation praised the Green Shirts for their “excellent goals in the second half” and “amazing goalkeeping in the shootout”.
Rana Waheed Ashraf earned the man-of-the-match title for his commanding presence and performance throughout the contest.
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He was well supported by Afraz Hakeem, Sufyan Khan, and Muhammad Hammaduddin, who all found the back of the net during the game.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) leadership, including President Mir Tariq Hussain Bugti and Secretary General Olympian Rana Mujahid Ali Khan, extended congratulations to the team.
They also wished them success ahead of the final, which will be played on Saturday.
High-Stakes Final Awaits
The FIH Hockey Nations Cup is a crucial tournament for teams aiming to reach the elite level.
The winner of the final will earn promotion to the FIH Hockey Pro League for the 2025–26 season, making Saturday’s match a high-stakes affair.
Pakistan’s opponent in the final will be decided after the second semi-final between New Zealand and South Korea.
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That match is scheduled for 6:00 PM PKT.
Regardless of the outcome, Pakistan’s journey to the final has already marked a significant step in their hockey revival.
Grit and Resilience in the Group Stage
Pakistan’s path to the semifinals was anything but easy.
They finished second in Pool B with four points from three matches.
Their campaign included a crucial 3-2 win over Japan and a fighting 3-3 draw against hosts Malaysia.
Their only defeat came in a narrow 4-3 loss to New Zealand.
Pakistan’s superior goal difference allowed them to edge out Malaysia and qualify for the knockout stage.
With renewed confidence and momentum on their side, Pakistan now aims to clinch the title and reclaim its position in world hockey’s top tier.
