The Pakistan Hockey Team on Sunday lost the FIH Olympic qualifier 3rd place match against New Zealand 3-2, losing their chance to qualify for the Paris Olympics 2024. Courtesy of the win, New Zealand qualified for the Paris Olympics, along with Great Britain and Germany.
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Pakistan have been struggling to qualify for the since 2012, having failed to take part in Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020.
The Pakistan team started the match against New Zealand well, scored the opening goal in the 18th minute. Abu Mahmood converted a a penalty corner to ignite Pakistan’s hopes. However, their lead lasted only 6 minutes as Scott Boyde regained parity for New Zealand. Pakistan again regained the lead and held on to it till 52nd minute.
However, their dreams of an Olympic qualification after 12 years were dashed when Inglis Hugo equalised for New Zealand. A spirited New Zealand scored again in the 58th minute, leaving Pakistan with very little time to turn the game around. Pakistan pushed hard, but failed to get into the game as the final whistle blew.
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