In a thrilling encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats, Pakistan managed to secure a 1-1 draw against Japan in the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup 2024, held in Ipoh, Malaysia.
The tense match concluded with a last-minute goal that preserved Pakistan’s unbeaten streak in the tournament.
The game started with both teams displaying aggressive tactics and solid defense. The initial two quarters saw numerous attacks from both sides, yet neither team was able to break through the defensive lines to score, leaving the scoreboard unaltered at halftime.
Momentum shifted in the 33rd minute of the match when Japan’s Ken Nagayoshi broke the deadlock. Executing a flawless penalty corner, Nagayoshi sent the ball flying past the Pakistani goalkeeper, putting Japan in the lead. The goal injected a new energy into the Japanese team, who intensified their attacks hoping to double their advantage.
Pakistan, facing the threat of their first loss in the tournament, increased their efforts to find an equalizer. Despite several close calls and intense pressure, the Japanese defense stood firm, repelling attack after attack. As the match entered the final quarter, the intensity on the field reached a fever pitch with Pakistan throwing everything forward in search of a goal.
The persistence of the Pakistani team finally paid off in the dying moments of the match. Rana Waheed Ashraf, known for his precision and calm under pressure, stepped up to take a crucial penalty corner. With flawless execution, Ashraf fired the ball into the net, securing a dramatic late equalizer for Pakistan and maintaining their position as one of the unbeaten teams in the tournament.
The draw against Japan adds to Pakistan’s impressive performance in this year’s cup, following their narrow victory over Malaysia and a commanding win against South Korea. The team’s resilience and ability to deliver under pressure will be critical as they prepare to face Canada on May 8 in their next match.
This result leaves the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup wide open, with several teams still in contention. Pakistan’s ability to snatch a draw from the jaws of defeat has not only kept their hopes alive but also added to the excitement of what is shaping up to be a fiercely competitive tournament. Fans are eagerly anticipating the next round of games, as the battle for supremacy in the world of international hockey continues.
