Asian Games 2023: Pakistan hockey clinches second victory, beats Bangladesh

LAHORE: The Pakistan hockey team secured their second victory in the ongoing Asian Games 2023, held in Hangzhou, China, as they triumphed over Bangladesh in a thrilling match.

In their second match against Bangladesh, the Green Shirts initially fell behind Bangladesh scored early from a penalty corner at the 19-minute mark. However, Pakistan quickly recovered, and Afraz’s contribution helped them tie the score at 1-1. Pakistan went on to win the match 5-2.

The Men in Green took advantage of their comeback by scoring two goals in a row. Shahzeb Khan scored in the 40th minute, and Mohammad Imad scored in the 43rd minute.

Bangladesh fought hard to catch up and scored their second goal at the 46-minute mark. However, Pakistan’s lead became stronger when Sufyan Khan made a strong shot from a penalty corner, making the score 4-2.

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The decisive blow came from Pakistan’s drag flick specialist, Arbaz Ahmed, who executed a flawless drag flick, securing the fifth goal for the Men in Green.

The Green Shirts are now set to face Uzbekistan on September 28, continuing their campaign in the tournament.

In their opening match, Pakistan hockey team had showcased their dominance by defeating Singapore with a resounding 11-0 victory on Sunday. During that match, Ammad, Arshad Liaquat, and Arbaz Ahmad each contributed two goals, while Mohammad Shahzaib Khan, Abdul Waheed Rana, Zikriya Hayat, Afraz, and Abdul Rehman each added one goal to the tally.

The Asian Games 2023 feature 12 hockey teams divided into two groups of six. Pakistan, alongside India, Japan, Bangladesh, Singapore, and Uzbekistan, is placed in Pool A, while Pool B includes Korea, Malaysia, China, Oman, Thailand, and Indonesia.