Pakistan beat Japan 4–3, qualify for Hockey World Cup

ISLAMABAD, Mar 06 (APP): Pakistan defeated Japan 4–3 in a thrilling semifinal of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers in Ismailia, Egypt on Friday, securing a place in the final and confirming their qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026.

According to the information made available here by Pakistan Hockey Federation, the high-intensity encounter saw Pakistan stage a remarkable comeback after trailing during the match.

Pakistan took the lead in the first quarter, but Japan fought back and equalised in the second quarter. Japan then scored
twice in the third quarter to take a 3–1 lead, putting Pakistan under immense pressure.

However, the Green Shirts displayed remarkable resilience in the final quarter, scoring three goals to turn the match around and seal a dramatic 4–3 victory.

For Pakistan, Muhammad Ammad, Abu Bakar Mahmood, Sufyan Khan and Afraz scored one goal each. Muhammad Ammad was declared the Player of the Match for his outstanding performance against Japan.

According to match statistics, Pakistan dominated the attacking play with 28 circle penetrations compared to Japan’s 17, reflecting their aggressive approach throughout the contest.

With this victory, Pakistan not only advanced to the final of the qualifiers but also ensured their participation in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026.

President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani congratulated the national team on qualifying for the World Cup and reaching the final, praising the players for their determination and fighting spirit in a tense contest.

Chairmen of the PHF Ad-hoc Governance and Management Committee Olympian Islahuddin Siddiqui, Olympian Hassan Sardar and Chief Selector Samiullah Khan, also felicitated the team on maintaining an undefeated run in the qualifier round and expressed confidence that the players would continue their winning momentum in the final.

Director General Pakistan Sports Board Muhammad Yasir Pirzada also congratulated the national team on the achievement, describing the victory as a proud moment for the country and a positive step towards the revival of Pakistan’s national game.