IPOH, Malaysia (Dunya News) – Japan pulled out a stunning win over Pakistan in penalty shootout to clinch Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup title on Saturday in Ipoh, Malaysia.
Hockey, which is considered as dead sport in Pakistan despite being the national game, regained the attention of audience this year owing to stunning performance by the Green Shirts.
After the match ended in a 2-2 draw in the given time, the mandatory shootout saw Japan take a bonus point by posting four back-to-back goals and win the game.
Japan went into lead in the first quarter as they netted the first goal in 12th minute. However, the team Green turned the tables on the rivals in the third quarter when they posted back-to-back two goals. Ajaz Ahmed netted a brilliant goal in the 34th minute and Abdul Rehman made it 2-1 in the 37th minute.
However, Japan managed to equal the score with the start of the fourth quarter by posting their second goal.
In previous matches, Pakistan displayed impressive performance to qualify for the Azlan Shah final after 13 years. The team last played the final in 2011 when they faced defeat at the hands of Australia.
Also Read: Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup: Pakistan vs New Zealand match ends in draw
On Friday, the match between Pakistan and New Zealand ended in a draw by 1-1 goal. The match ended in a draw, with both sides securing one point each, the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) said in a social media post.
Pakistan have already won their matches against Malaysia, South Korea and Canada. The match between Pakistan and Japan ended in a draw.
Pakistan with 11 points is leading the table points as the Team Green remained unbeaten throughout the tournament.