China triumphed over Pakistan in a gripping semi-final of the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy on Monday, earning a place in the tournament’s final following a tense penalty shootout.
The high-stakes match took place at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia, where both teams displayed exceptional skills and determination throughout the contest. Despite their efforts, Pakistan was unable to turn the tide during the penalty shootout, missing four consecutive penalties, which allowed China to claim a 2-0 victory.
With this result, China moved forward to the final, a moment of elation for their supporters but a heartbreaking outcome for Pakistan and their fans. Pakistan’s hopes to reach the final were dashed as their players struggled under the pressure of the shootout.
The match during regular play was evenly contested, with both teams showing impressive pace and aggression. China’s defence stood firm, and they managed to break through with a goal in the second quarter. However, Pakistan fought back, with Ahmed Nadeem scoring an equalizer in the third quarter, keeping the game alive and intensifying the competition.
The deadlock led to a decisive penalty shootout, where China kept their composure and secured victory. On the other hand, Pakistan’s failure to convert their chances in the shootout sealed their fate, sending China to the final round.
China now awaits the winner of the second semi-final between South Korea and India, which will determine their opponent in the final. Pakistan, meanwhile, is set to compete for third place in their upcoming match.
Pakistan’s journey in the Asian Champions Trophy had been a rollercoaster. They began with a 2-2 draw against Malaysia on September 8, followed by another 2-2 draw against South Korea on September 9. They secured a 2-1 win over Japan on September 11, before a commanding 5-1 victory over China on September 12. However, their campaign took a downturn with a 1-2 loss to India on September 14, and the semi-final draw against China (1-1), which ultimately ended in a 2-0 shootout defeat on September 16.
