Pakistan edge past Japan to reach Junior Hockey Asia Cup final

Pakistan Defeats Japan 4-2 to Reach Junior Hockey Asia Cup Final

Hannan Shahid’s brace powered Pakistan to a hard-fought 4-2 victory over Japan in the semifinal of the 2024 Men’s Junior Hockey Asia Cup in Muscat on Tuesday, securing their place in the tournament’s final.

The match began cautiously, with neither team able to find the net in the first quarter. The deadlock was broken in the 26th minute when Pakistan’s captain, Hannan Shahid, scored the opener. However, Japan’s Tsubasa Tanaka equalized just three minutes later, leaving the teams tied 1-1 at halftime.

The third quarter followed a similar back-and-forth pattern. Pakistan regained the lead in the 38th minute through Ali Basharat, but Japan quickly responded with a goal from Rakusei Yamanaka, leveling the match at 2-2.

Determined to secure the win, Pakistan dominated the decisive fourth quarter. Hannan Shahid struck again in the 48th minute with a brilliant field goal, putting his side ahead. Four minutes later, Pakistan was awarded a penalty corner, which Sufiyan Khan converted, sealing a 4-2 victory.

Unbeaten throughout the tournament, Pakistan will now face either India or Malaysia in the final, scheduled for Wednesday at the same venue. This marks Pakistan’s second appearance in the Junior Hockey Asia Cup final, a testament to their consistency and skill in the competition.