Moqi (China), Sep 14, 2024 (Yes Punjab News)
India’s national hockey team secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory against arch-rivals Pakistan in their final group-stage match at the Asian Champions Trophy.
The match, held at the Moqi Hockey Training Base, saw skipper Harmanpreet Singh rise to the occasion with two crucial goals, leading India to their fifth consecutive win in the six-team round-robin tournament.
Both India and Pakistan had already qualified for the semifinals, but the intensity of the rivalry ensured a fiercely contested match. This close encounter kept fans on the edge of their seats as India narrowly edged past their neighbors to close out the group stage.
Pakistan Strikes Early with an Eighth-Minute Goal
The match began with Pakistan taking an early lead, stunning the Indian defense. In the eighth minute, Hannan Shahid made a powerful run into the Indian circle and delivered a precise pass to Ahmad Nadeem. Positioned near the goalpost, Nadeem deflected the ball into the Indian net with ease, as India’s goalkeeper Krishna Pathak was unable to react in time. The quick goal energized Pakistan, putting India under pressure to respond.
Harmanpreet Singh Levels the Score
Despite the early setback, India did not take long to equalize. Skipper Harmanpreet Singh, known for his prowess in penalty corners, stepped up in the 13th minute to level the score. Singh’s powerful strike found the top right corner of the goal, leaving the Pakistan goalkeeper with no chance to stop it. This goal not only restored parity but also shifted momentum in India’s favor.
India Takes the Lead with Another Penalty Corner
Just six minutes after his first goal, Harmanpreet Singh was back at it again, converting yet another penalty corner in the 19th minute. This time, he flicked the ball just past the Pakistan goalkeeper, giving India a crucial 2-1 lead. Singh’s brilliance in penalty corners proved to be the difference-maker, as Pakistan struggled to find an answer to India’s set-piece strategies.
A Close Finish as India Holds On
As the match progressed, Pakistan continued to apply pressure in search of an equalizer, but the Indian defense, led by goalkeeper Krishna Pathak, held firm. The final moments of the game were tense, with both teams battling fiercely, but India managed to hold onto their 2-1 lead until the final whistle.
India’s Consistent Performance in the Tournament
This victory marked India’s fifth consecutive win in the group stage of the Asian Champions Trophy, solidifying their status as one of the tournament favorites. The six-team round-robin format has been highly competitive, but India’s dominance throughout the group stage has been impressive.
Both India and Pakistan have now advanced to the semifinals, which are scheduled for September 16, with the final match slated for September 17. India’s confident form heading into the knockout rounds will make them a formidable opponent, as they aim to lift the trophy.
India’s Historic Record Against Pakistan
India’s recent performances against Pakistan have been nothing short of remarkable. In their last encounter at the Asian Games, India delivered a historic 10-2 thrashing of Pakistan, marking the highest margin of victory in their 180 head-to-head meetings. That result was also the first time India scored more than seven goals against Pakistan in a single game.
Earlier in 2023, India had already defeated Pakistan 4-0 in the Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai, further asserting their dominance over their long-time rivals.
What’s Next for India in the Tournament?
With the group stage now complete, India’s focus shifts to the semifinals. Their impressive form and Harmanpreet Singh’s leadership have given the team confidence heading into the knockout rounds. As they prepare for the semifinal on September 16, India will look to maintain their winning streak and secure a place in the final on September 17.
Pakistan, despite the loss, has also shown resilience throughout the tournament and will be keen to bounce back in the semifinals.
Thrilling Encounter
India’s 2-1 victory over Pakistan in the Asian Champions Trophy group stage was a thrilling encounter that showcased the intensity of one of hockey’s most storied rivalries. Harmanpreet Singh’s heroics with two penalty corner goals made the difference as India completed a successful group stage campaign. Both teams now look ahead to the semifinals, with India carrying significant momentum into the next round.
