Kuala Lumpur, June 20, 2025: Pakistan’s national hockey team advanced to the final of the FIH Hockey Nations Cup after a dramatic 3-2 win over France in a penalty shootout at the National Stadium on Friday.
In a high-octane semi-final, both teams fought fiercely but ended regular play tied, sending the match into a tense shootout. France faltered under pressure, missing three critical chances, while Pakistan held their nerve. Rana Waheed Ashraf, Hannan Shahid, and Afraz successfully converted their penalties, sealing a memorable victory for the Green Shirts.
The first quarter saw a cautious start, with both sides struggling to break through. France threatened early with multiple penalty corners but failed to capitalize.
In the second quarter, France struck first as Smenjaud Xavier deflected the ball into the net, giving his side the lead. The pressure mounted on Pakistan as Charlet Victor doubled France’s advantage in the third quarter with a precise flick.
However, Pakistan mounted a stunning comeback. Afraz reignited hopes with a well-placed goal, and within a span of a minute, Sufyan Khan and Hammadudin Muhammad turned the tide with two quick strikes to give Pakistan a 3-2 lead heading into the final quarter.
France pressed hard to equalize, but Pakistan’s defense held firm, and with no goals in the final quarter, the game moved to penalties.
Pakistan’s path to the semi-finals had already been marked by high drama. They edged out host nation Malaysia on goal difference to qualify. Despite Malaysia’s 2-1 win over Japan on Wednesday, Pakistan advanced thanks to scoring nine goals in their group matches, compared to Malaysia’s eight.
Earlier in the tournament, Pakistan opened with a 3-3 draw against Malaysia and followed up with a commanding win over Japan. Their group stage ended with a heartbreaking 4-3 loss to New Zealand, despite leading 3-1 for much of the game. New Zealand’s Scott Cosslett scored a sensational hat-trick, including a late winner, to push his team into the semis.
With Friday’s thrilling win over France, Pakistan have now secured a place in the final of the prestigious Nations Cup, rekindling hopes for a revival of their historic legacy in international hockey.
