DAZHOU, China — The young guns of Pakistan U-18 hockey team delivered yet another thrilling performance on Friday, booking their spot in the final of the U-18 Asia Cup with a 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Malaysia after a dramatic 3-3 draw in regular time.
The match, held in Dazhou, saw both sides locked in a fiercely competitive encounter. Despite multiple lead changes, neither team could secure a win within regulation time. With the stakes high, the contest was decided in a nail-biting penalty shootout, where Pakistan’s resilience and sharp goalkeeping proved decisive.
In a celebratory post on Instagram, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) praised the squad for their grit, writing: “Phenomenal goalkeeping and nerves of steel in the shootout — the boys in green are through to the final against Japan this Sunday! Let’s bring the trophy home.”
This win not only earned Pakistan a place in the final but also extended their undefeated streak in the tournament, solidifying their position as top contenders.
Road to the Final
Pakistan’s road to the final has been nothing short of dominant:
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Beat Bangladesh 6-3
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Crushed Sri Lanka 9-0
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Overwhelmed Hong Kong 8-0
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Defeated hosts China 2-1 in the semi-final qualifier
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Drew 3-3 with Malaysia in the semi-final, won 4-3 on penalties
Each match has showcased not only their attacking flair but also the tactical discipline and teamwork instilled in the squad.
Final Showdown: Pakistan vs Japan
The final will take place on Sunday, where Pakistan faces Japan, another unbeaten side, in what promises to be an epic clash. The Green Shirts are aiming to bring the trophy home with a perfect campaign.
Pakistan U-18 Squad:
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Goalkeepers: Mohammad Usman, Atif Ali
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Defenders: Asam Junaid, Mohammad Abdullah Farooq, Abdullah Awan, Zubair Lateef
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Midfielders: Mohammad Yaseen, Mohammad Ali Taj, Ghulam Mustafa
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Forwards: Ali Hamza, Ali Hamzad, Aamir Sohail, Adeel Afzal, Mohammad Zaman, Mohammad Hussain
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Substitutes: Mohammad Shaheer, Hasan Shahbaz, Yaseen Jamshaid
Led by a well-balanced mix of explosive talent and tactical depth, the team has not only captured hearts back home but also re-established Pakistan’s growing strength in youth hockey on the continental stage.
As the final approaches, fans across the nation will be rallying behind the team, hoping for a triumphant finish and the chance to see the Green Shirts lift the U-18 Asia Cup title once again.
