Pakistan Men’s Hockey Team endured a significant setback in their inaugural match of the Paris Olympics Qualifiers against Great Britain, succumbing to a resounding 6-1 defeat in Muscat, Oman.
Great Britain seized an early advantage when Waller Jack found the net through a Penalty Corner in the opening quarter. The momentum continued to sway in their favour, extending the lead to 2-0 during the second quarter.
As Great Britain maintained their dominance, two additional goals were secured, amplifying the lead to 4-0 in the third quarter. Ward Sam contributed the second and third goals, while Calnan Will added the fourth to solidify their control.
16th-ranked Pakistan managed to salvage some pride in the fourth quarter, with Shahid Hannan securing the lone goal. However, Great Britain remained relentless, with Wallace Zachary netting the fifth goal through a Penalty Stroke, and Bandurak Nicholas stamping authority with the sixth goal.
In pool A, Pakistan share the stage with Great Britain, China, and Malaysia. The next challenge awaits them against China tomorrow, while their encounter with Malaysia is scheduled for January 18.
Earlier in a gripping showdown, 23rd-ranked China defied expectations, clinching a last-minute victory against 13th-ranked Malaysia with a penalty corner, concluding the match with a 3-2 triumph.
Pakistan Squad for Olympic Qualifiers:
Team: Abdullah Ishtiaq, Waqar, Arbaz Ahmed, Muhammad Abdullah, Sufiyan Khan, Ammad Shakeel Butt (captain), Abu Bakar Mahmood (vice-captain), Murtaza Yaqoob, Abdul Mannan, Aqeel Ahmed, Moeen Shakil, Salman Razaq, Abdul Hannan Shahid, Ghazanfar Ali, Abdul Rahman Jr., Zikriya Hayat, Rana Abdul Waheed Ashraf, Arshad Liaquat.
Management: Shahnaz Sheikh (head coach), Shakil Abbasi (coach), Dilawar Hussain (assistant coach), Amjad Ali (Goalkeeping Coach), Waqas Mahmood (Physiotherapist), Muhammad Imran Khan (Physical Trainer).
