Pakistan made a winning start to their campaign in the opening match of the FIH Men’s World Cup Qualifier Round, defeating China 5-4 in a gripping encounter at Ismailia, Egypt, on Sunday. According to a press release issued by the Pakistan Hockey Federation, the national team displayed resilience and attacking flair to secure victory in the tournament being held from March 1 to 7.
Pakistan’s goals came through Muhammad Sufyan Khan, Rana Waheed Ashraf, Muhammad Imad, Abu Bakar Mahmood and Rana Waleed, with each player contributing one goal to the tally. China fought hard throughout the contest, with Xiaohu scoring twice, while Zheng and Guan netted one goal each to keep their side in contention until the final whistle.
The closely contested match kept spectators on the edge, as both sides exchanged swift attacks and capitalized on scoring opportunities. However, Pakistan managed to maintain composure in the decisive moments to seal the one-goal advantage.
President PHF Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani, along with Chairmen of the Ad-hoc Governance and Management Committee Olympian Islahuddin Siddiqui and Olympian Hassan Sardar, and Chief Selector Samiullah Khan, congratulated the national team on their impressive victory in the opening fixture of the Qualifier Round.
Pakistan will now face Malaysia in their second match on Monday, followed by their third outing against Austria on Wednesday as they continue their quest for qualification.