Pakistan secured their first victory in the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy with a 2-1 win over Japan at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia, China, on Wednesday.
The match saw an early advantage for Pakistan when Nadeem Ahmed scored in the first quarter. However, Japan equalized in the second quarter, bringing the game back to level terms. The decisive moment came in the 10th minute of the second quarter when Sufyan Khan restored Pakistan’s lead, which proved sufficient for the win.
Prior to this victory, Pakistan’s campaign had seen two draws. Their match against South Korea ended 2-2 after Pakistan failed to defend a two-goal lead. South Korea initially took the lead in the second quarter, but Pakistan made a comeback in the fourth quarter with two quick goals from Hanan Shahid. Despite their efforts, South Korea managed to score again before the final whistle, leveling the game.
Pakistan’s previous game against Malaysia also resulted in a 2-2 draw, reflecting their struggle to secure wins in their opening matches.
Pakistan’s upcoming fixtures include a game against China on September 12, followed by a clash with India on September 14.
