Nagoya, September 30, 2026: Pakistan advanced to the semi-finals of the Asian Games men’s team squash competition after defeating South Korea 2-0 in the quarter-finals at the Nagoya Kinjo Futo Arena on Wednesday.
Pakistan’s Noor Zaman and Ashab Irfan secured straight wins in the two singles ties to book a place in the Final Four and guarantee at least a bronze medal for the country.
Ashab opened the proceedings against South Korea’s Jooyoung Na and produced a dominant 3-0 victory.
He won the opening game 11-5 in nine minutes before overcoming increased resistance from his opponent in the next two games, which he won 11-8, 11-8.
In the second singles tie, Noor faced Seojin Oh and prevailed 3-1.
The 22-year-old Pakistan player raced to a 2-0 lead after winning the first two games 11-4 and 11-5. Seojin fought back to claim the third game 11-8, but Noor responded strongly to win the fourth 11-2 and seal Pakistan’s place in the semi-finals.
The victory also secured Pakistan at least a bronze medal in the men’s team squash event, which would be the country’s third overall medal in the discipline at the Games.
Pakistan will face Hong Kong, China, in the semi-finals on Thursday at the same venue.
The Pakistan team also includes Iqbal Nasir and Asim Khan, while Hong Kong, China’s squad comprises Tsz Kwan Lau, Chi Hin Henry Leung, Cheuk Nam Lai and Ming Hong Tang.
