Pakistan ease into semi-finals
Greenshirts are among the final four of Asian Men’s Champions Trophy. PHOTO COURTESY: AHF
KARACHI: Two goals by Abdul Haseem Khan steered Pakistan national hockey team into the semi-final of Asian Men’s Champions Trophy tournament, defeating China 4-0 in their last league match in Kuntan, Malaysia on Thursday.
Pakistan, who previously had two wins and two loses in the tournament, required a win today to book their berth in the semi-finals.
Both team were unable to find the net in the first quarter. However, Pakistan took 1-0 lead by end of first half thanks to a 21st minute goal by Haseem from a neatly converted penalty corner.
Semi-final berth on the line as Pakistan face China
Haseem struck again in the third quarter, taking the ball into China’s half up to the D area to score the Greenshirts’ second goal in the 31st minute.
Despite a 2-0 lead going into the fourth quarter, Pakistan kept on attacking, with Ali Shan and Muhammad Irfan Jr adding one goal each in the 48th and 49th minute respectively.
Pakistan eye semi-final spot after 4-3 win over Japan
During the match, China was seen having trouble carrying the ball as the defenders wouldn’t let them pass the defending line.
Pakistan’s opponent is yet to be decided between India and hosts Malaysia.
Original news : http://tribune.com.pk/story/1212144/pakistan-ease-semi-finals/