KUALA LUMPUR: In a thrilling showdown, Pakistan’s national hockey team has secured a place in the final of the 2024–25 FIH Men’s Nations Cup by defeating France 3–2 in a penalty shootout after a nail-biting 3–3 draw in regulation time at the National Hockey Stadium in Kuala Lumpur .
The semi-final duel began cautiously, with neither side scoring during the first quarter despite several penalty corners. France broke the stalemate in the second quarter when Xavier Esmenjaud netted a field goal in the 25th minute, followed by Victor Charlet adding another early in the third quarter, giving France a 2–0 lead.
Pakistan fought back aggressively in the third quarter, scoring three goals in five minutes to take a 3–2 lead. Afraz Hakeem opened the comeback with a well-timed finish assisted by Rana Waheed Ashraf, followed by Sufyan Khan’s drag flick from a penalty corner. Muhammad Hammadudin completed the blitz with a deft deflection.
In the dying minutes of the match, France responded with another penalty corner conversion by Charlet, leveling the game at 3–3 and pushing it to a penalty shootout
Under intense pressure, Pakistan remained composed during the shootout. They prevailed 3–2, thanks to stellar saves by goalkeeper Muneeb Ur‑Rehman, who stopped three French attempts. Successful strikes by Afraz Hakeem, Hannan Shahid, and Rana Waheed Ashraf sealed Pakistan’s path to the final.
This victory marks Pakistan’s return to the Nations Cup final after more than a decade. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took to X to congratulate the team, praising their resilience and skill. He expressed hope that Pakistan would reclaim its historic stature in the sport.
Pakistan will face either New Zealand or South Korea in the final on June 21. The winner will also gain promotion to the elite FIH Pro League for the 2025–26 season, adding significant stakes to the final showdown.
The green shirts’ remarkable comeback and shootout triumph reflect Pakistan's hockey renaissance, captivating national pride and reigniting hopes of a return to hockey prominence.
