India emerged victorious in a nail-biting encounter against arch-rivals Pakistan in the 2024 Asian Champions Trophy, held at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir, China. Courtesy of two goals from captain Harmanpreet Singh, India secured a hard-fought 2-1 win, maintaining their unbeaten streak in the tournament.
Pakistan Hockey Team takes early lead
The match began with high intensity, and it was Pakistan who struck first. In the opening quarter, Nadeem Shaheen combined brilliantly to take the ball into the Indian circle and delivered a sharp final touch to give Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the 7th minute. The early goal set the tone for what was expected to be a tightly contested battle between the two fierce rivals.
Harmanpreet’s Instant Response
India, however, did not take long to respond. Just before the first quarter ended, India earned a penalty corner, and Harmanpreet Singh delivered a precise drag flick to level the score at 1-1. His shot was driven into the bottom right corner, catching the Pakistan defence off-guard and shifting the momentum in India’s favour.
Harmanpreet Singh doubles lead
India continued their attacking display in the second quarter, with Harmanpreet once again finding the back of the net. Another penalty corner opportunity came India’s way, and the captain calmly converted it, securing his brace and giving India a 2-1 lead.
Pakistan, now behind, suffered another setback when key player Mahmud had to leave the field due to injury.
India Hockey Team defence holds strong
Pakistan fought hard to equalise in the third quarter, earning a penalty corner, but Indian goalkeeper Krishan Pathak made a remarkable double save to deny them. Pathak’s heroics helped India maintain their slender lead as the game moved into the final quarter. Despite relentless pressure from Pakistan, India’s defence held firm, preventing any further goals.
Final Quarter Drama in Asian Champions Trophy
The final quarter saw India pressing forward to put the game beyond Pakistan’s reach, but they were unable to extend their lead. Pakistan, playing a man down after Ashraf was sent off, managed to defend against multiple Indian penalty corners. However, their efforts to level the score were thwarted by a resilient Indian side.
India Clinch 2-1 Victory
As the final whistle blew, India secured a well-deserved 2-1 victory over their long-time rivals. Harmanpreet Singh’s performance, particularly his brace, was the highlight of the match, as he led India to a crucial win. With this result, India finished their group stage campaign undefeated, heading confidently into the semifinals.
India’s dominance in the tournament has been evident, starting with commanding wins over China, Japan, Malaysia, and Korea. With their latest victory over Pakistan, India solidifies its position as one of the top contenders for the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 title.
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