Web Desk
Pakistan secured a spot in the semi-finals of the ongoing Junior Hockey Asia Cup 2023 after defeating Japan on Monday.
In the match held in Salalah, Pakistan emerged victorious with a score of 3-2, earning them a place in the tournament’s semi-final. Abdul Wahab scored two goals for Pakistan, while Arbaaz Ahmed contributed with one goal.
Japan took the lead in the second minute of the game when Kompi Yoshida scored on a penalty corner. However, Pakistan’s Arbaaz equalized the match in the 23rd minute with a goal from a penalty corner. In the 30th minute, Abdul Wahab scored a field goal, giving Pakistan the lead. But in the 38th minute, Japan’s Hota Yamada equalized once again.
Pakistan will now face Malaysia in the semi-final scheduled for May 31. This victory also ensures Pakistan’s qualification for the Junior Hockey World Cup to be held in Malaysia later this year.
Pakistan only needed to avoid defeat in their final pool match against Japan to secure their World Cup qualification after their match against India ended in a draw. As the hosts, Malaysia has already secured a spot in the World Cup. Since Pakistan and the other three teams reaching the semi-finals of the Junior Asia Cup will also qualify for the World Cup, they have now secured their participation in the FIH Junior Hockey Men’s World Cup 2023, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from December 5-16, 2023.
