Pakistan Beat Japan 3-2 in FIH Nations Cup Comeback Thriller
What a stunning comeback, Pakistan beat Japan 3-2 in a high-stakes clash at the FIH Nations Cup in Kuala Lumpur. The Green Shirts bounced back from a 2-1 first-quarter deficit to snatch victory and revive their semifinal chances.
Pakistan struck early through Ghazanfar Ali, but Japan responded rapidly with goals from Kazumasa and Koji Yamasaki to lead 2-1. A goalless second quarter followed as both sides played cautiously.
In the third quarter, Rana Waheed Ashraf equalized for Pakistan with a clinical finish. The match-winner came in the final period when Sufiyan Khan converted a penalty corner to seal the 3-2 triumph.
This follows Pakistan’s 3-3 draw against hosts Malaysia, where goals from Ahmed Nadeem, Abdul Rehman, and Rana Waheed were offset by a late Malaysian comeback.
Pakistan Beat Japan, Pool B Standings
| Team | Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses | P |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 |
| Malaysia | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 |
| Japan | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 |
| New Zealand | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Pakistan’s Next Match vs New Zealand
Pakistan’s final Pool B match against New Zealand on Wednesday will decide their semifinal fate. A win would almost guarantee qualification, while a draw might be enough depending on other results.
With promotion to the FIH Pro League 2025–26 on the line, the pressure is on.
Standout Players
- Ghazanfar Ali – Opener
- Rana Waheed Ashraf – Equalizer
- Sufiyan Khan – Match-winning penalty corner
Pakistan’s discipline and clutch scoring in key moments show their readiness to compete at the highest level.
Stay with Khelo Pakistan for more FIH Nations Cup coverage and Pakistan hockey updates.
