Kuala Lumpur, June 16, 2025: Pakistan edged past Japan 3-2 in a gripping encounter in their second group match of the FIH Nations Cup at the National Hockey Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on Monday.
The Green Shirts mounted an impressive comeback after trailing 2-1 in the opening quarter, with decisive goals in the second half sealing a vital win.
Pakistan struck early, with Ghazanfar Ali netting in the first quarter to give his side the lead. However, Japan responded swiftly, equalizing within a minute through Kazumasa, and then taking the lead just two minutes later via Koji Yamasaki. The first quarter ended 2-1 in Japan’s favor, with no goals scored in the second quarter.
In the third quarter, Pakistan drew level thanks to a well-executed goal by Rana Waheed Ashraf. The decisive moment came in the final quarter when Sufiyan Khan converted a penalty corner, restoring Pakistan’s lead and securing a dramatic 3-2 victory.
Pakistan will face New Zealand in their third group match on Wednesday at the same venue.
Earlier on Sunday, Pakistan played out a pulsating 3-3 draw against host nation Malaysia in their tournament opener. Ahmed Nadeem and Abdul Rehman put Pakistan 2-0 ahead in the first quarter, but Malaysia fought back with two quick goals in the final quarter through Fitri Saari and Syed Cholan. Although Rana Waheed Ashraf gave Pakistan a late lead, Cholan struck again just two minutes later to level the match.
The FIH Nations Cup features eight teams split into two pools. Pool A includes France, Korea, South Africa, and Wales, while Pool B comprises Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Pakistan.
Following the preliminary rounds, the top teams from each pool will advance to the semi-finals on June 20. The final and bronze medal matches are scheduled for June 21.
The tournament serves as a qualification pathway to the prestigious FIH Hockey Pro League, with the winner earning promotion to the 2025–26 season.
