LAHORE/KARACHI: Pakistan defeated China 2-0 to register their first win in the Paris Olympics Qualifiers in Muscat, Oman, on Tuesday.
In the goalless first half, both teams displayed defensive game, but the third quarter saw some entertaining hockey as a couple of goal scoring chances were created by Pakistan. Pakistan’s continuous attacks bore fruit as Abu Bakr, the drag flicker, scored the first goal for Pakistan.
In the fourth quarter, Pakistan played well, penetrated the Chinese circle and entered the D area resulting in penalty corners. Abdul Rehman was successful in scoring the second goal on a rebound of a penalty corner.
In the last few minutes of the fourth quarter Chinese team tried its level best and attacked Pakistani goal post, got a couple of penalty corners but failed to score any goal.
Pakistan had lost their first match against England on Monday by 6-1. Abdul Hanan Shahid managed to score the solitary goal for Pakistan, while England demonstrated superior strategy and execution.
Pakistan had four penalty corners during the match but could not capitalise on these opportunities. In contrast, England received 12 penalty corners, showcasing their dominance in set-piece situations.
England took an early lead and maintained control throughout the match. They scored two penalty corners, one penalty stroke, and three field goals, showcasing a well-executed game plan.
Pakistan’s final pool match is against Malaysia on Thursday. If Pakistan win their last match, they will qualify for the semi-finals.
It must be noted that the top three teams of the qualifiers will book spot in the Paris Olympics.
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