Pakistan have qualified for the Hockey World Cup after eight years by defeating Japan 4–3 in a thrilling semi-final of the World Cup Hockey Qualifier currently being played in Egypt.
The match was closely contested, with both teams displaying high intensity throughout. Pakistan managed to secure the victory and book their place in the final of the qualifier tournament.
Goalkeeper Ali Raza played a crucial role in Pakistan’s success by saving a penalty stroke just four minutes before the end of the match, preventing Japan from equalizing and ensuring Pakistan’s win.
For Pakistan, goals were scored by Sufyan Khan, Abu Muhammad, Muhammad Imad, and Afraz, who delivered an impressive attacking performance during the match.
With this semi-final victory, Pakistan have successfully qualified for the Hockey World Cup for the first time since 2018. The national team had failed to qualify for the previous edition of the tournament.
The Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be held from August 14 to August 30 in Belgium and the Netherlands.
