At the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup in Ipoh, Malaysia, on Wednesday, Pakistan defeated the defending champions of Asia, Japan, 5-3 to win bronze.
Pakistan finally took the event’s victory stand after 11 years. The last time was in 2011, when Pakistan faced Australia in the competition’s championship game.
The final will be played on Thursday (today) between Malaysia and South Korea. In the first quarter, Hanan Shahid of Pakistan tied the score after Kentaro Fukuda gave Japan the lead in the ninth minute.
Arbaz and Rooman each scored one goal for Pakistan in the second period to take control of the game.
Pakistan coach Ayaz Mehmood said that it was a great performance by the Green Shirts, who comprised inexperienced players except captain Umer Bhutta.
“Pakistan direly needed a medal, and reaching the victory podium proves that the young boys are talented enough to defeat strong teams,” he added.
“Our boys’ average age is less than 23. Eight of our players made their debut in this tournament. The others are also not much experienced. Most of them made their debut in Asia Cup 2022. So it is a great achievement. The team will be more successful when gradually this team gains experience,” said Ayaz.
