Pakistan storm into Junior Asia Cup semi-finals after 5-2 comeback win over Malaysia

MOHSIN ALI

ISLAMABAD:: Pakistan produced a remarkable second-half turnaround to defeat Malaysia 5-2 and book their place in the semi-finals of the Men’s Junior Hockey Asia Cup. Malaysia controlled much of the opening half and went ahead in the ninth minute through Muhammad Salehi. Pakistan struggled to create a breakthrough before the interval, allowing Malaysia to take a 1-0 lead into halftime. The complexion of the match changed dramatically after the restart as Pakistan launched an aggressive attacking spell. Nadeem Khan restored parity in the 32nd minute before Abdullah Sami Rana completed the turnaround four minutes later to give Pakistan a 2-1 advantage. Pakistan then produced a devastating burst of scoring. Rana Waleed found the net twice in the 39th and 40th minutes, extending the lead to 4-1 before Ali Hamza added another goal in the 41st minute. Pakistan’s five-goal surge came in just nine minutes, effectively putting the contest beyond Malaysia’s reach.

Malaysia managed a late response when Gunaseelan Dheeresh scored in the 54th minute, but Pakistan held firm during the closing stages to secure a convincing victory. Rana Waleed ended the match with two goals, while Ali Hamza was named Player of the Match for his contribution.

The result marked Pakistan’s third win of the tournament, with the team still unbeaten and now assured of a place in the semi-finals. Pakistan Hockey Federation President Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani congratulated the players and team management on the impressive victory and expressed confidence that the side would carry its winning momentum into the knockout stage.