Pakistan qualified for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026 for the first time since 2022 after defeating Japan 4-3 in a thrilling semi-final at Suez Canal Authority Hockey Stadium.
The Green Shirts began the high-stakes match strongly, with captain Ammad Butt opening the scoring in the ninth minute through a sensational field goal to give Pakistan an early advantage.
Japan equalised in the 21st minute when Ryoma Ooka scored a field goal, while the visitors later took a 3-1 lead with goals from Shota Yamada and Koji Yamasaki.
Pakistan staged a remarkable comeback in the final quarter, with Abu Mahmood, Sufyan Khan, and Afraz scoring in the 52nd, 55th, and 57th minutes to reclaim the lead and momentum.
Both teams pressed hard in the dying minutes, but the national team defence remained resolute, successfully maintaining their one-goal advantage until the final whistle and securing a place in the final of the qualifiers.
Earlier in the tournament, Pakistan remained unbeaten in the group stage with wins over China, Malaysia, and Austria, and will now face England in the final, scheduled to take place on Saturday.
PCB Chairman Meets Hockey Team to Address Concerns
Last month, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi met the national hockey team to address issues from the Australia tour and assured players of full support and attention.
The meeting followed the resignation of PHF Chief Tariq Bugti and a formal inquiry ordered by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif after complaints regarding the poor performance in the Pro Hockey League.
Players, including captain Imad Shakeel Butt, highlighted inadequate accommodation and logistical failures, describing incidents during the tour that negatively affected their preparation, morale, and overall readiness for international competition.
Naqvi expressed regret over these shortcomings, assured players of improved arrangements, presented cheques of Rs1 million each for their Six-Nation Hockey Tournament runner-up finish, and directed the Pakistan Sports Board to ensure full logistical support.
Hockey Tour Chaos
The hockey team’s Australia tour for the FIH Pro League faced severe logistical failures, leaving players without accommodation, meals, or basic support, raising serious concerns about the PHF’s governance.
Visa issues forced the squad to reschedule flights and complete biometric requirements after Australian authorities rejected incorrectly submitted applications, delaying their initial travel plans and disrupting team preparations.
Upon arrival, players endured long layovers without food or lodging, including cancelled hotel bookings in Hobart, forcing them to arrange alternative accommodations independently and raising urgent questions about administrative accountability and athlete welfare.
