Pakistan won four out of five matches and scored a total of 21 goals, to book their place in the final on the Asian Champions Trophy. PHOTO: FILE AFP
Defending champions Pakistan had enjoyed a smooth campaign as they defeated Oman (8-0), China (5-1) and Malaysia (1-0) before facing a challenging task against India on Thursday. However, their archrivals were pipped 5-4 as the greenshirts successfully booked their berth in the final.
However, they faced tough competition from the hosts yesterday. Pakistan coach Tahir Zaman feels that his team played well considering that Japan took the lead in the beginning of the first half.
“It was a good match, ultimately we qualified for the final here, and we’ll be trying hard to defend our title successfully,” Zaman told The Express Tribune. “We’ll be hoping to play excellent hockey in the final as well.”
Pakistan equalised the score with Abdul Haseem Khan’s goal. The reigning champions then dominated the second-half when Rizwan Jr doubled the score, but Japan levelled the score towards the end of the match.
Japan and Pakistan will play the final tomorrow. Zaman added that the team was keyed up for the big match.
“The good thing is that the team is in good spirits and none of our players have picked up any injury so far. It’s a good sign. They are in good form.”
Meanwhile, legendary hockey player Samiullah feels Pakistan can go on to win the trophy for the second consecutive time.
“The team seems to be gelling well in Japan,” he said. “They should continue to play in the same vein and return home with the trophy.”
Pakistan were the highest-ranked team in the competition as world number eight, while India (11th) and Malaysia (13th) were also touted as the teams to beat before the tournament.
Pakistan led the group stage with 15 points whereas Japan gathered 10 points to qualify for the final; they both won three out of their five matches.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 9th, 2013.
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