That was a display of sheer dominance and strength by Pakistan in their fourth match of the Asian Champions Trophy 2024. They defeated the hosts, China, with a commanding 5-1 victory on Thursday, September 12, at the Moqi Training Base in Hulunbuir. (Highlights | More Hockey News)
Pakistan, led by Ammad Shakeel Butt, showcased their skills of defence and attack at the same time. The goals came from Abdul Rehman (23'), Ahmad Nadeem (36' and 56'), and Hannan Shahid (46' and 60'). The sole goal for China was scored by Gao Jiesheng (48').
Hannan Shahid was named the hero of the match for his spectacular double. Pakistan's five goals, which decisively thrashed China in Hulunbuir, have secured their place in the semi-finals of the Asian Champions Trophy 2024, where they join India. This sets up the potential for an India vs. Pakistan final, though the two teams will first face off in their fifth match on Saturday.
Given this, one thing is clear: with two wins and no losses so far, Pakistan has ensured that they will not finish in fourth place this season; the lowest they can now place is third.
Pakistan kicked off their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Malaysia, followed by another 2-2 draw against Korea. In their third match, Shakeel Butt's team finally secured their first win of the tournament with a 2-1 victory over Japan. Today’s win marks their fourth match of the campaign.
