Pakistan registers stunning win over Japan to qualify for 2026 Hockey World Cup

Pakistan sealed their place at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 after a dramatic 4–3 victory over Japan in the semi-final of the qualifying tournament in Ismailia, Egypt on Friday.

Pakistan started brightly and took the lead in the ninth minute when Muhammad Ammad reacted quickly to score from a rebound after his initial effort struck the post. Japan pushed back strongly and equalised in the 21st minute through Ryoma Ooka, whose deft deflection made it 1–1 at halftime.

Japan gained the upper hand after the break. Shota Yamada converted a drag flick in the 35th minute before Koji Yamasaki added another in the 41st to give Japan a 3–1 advantage. However, Pakistan mounted a stunning comeback in the final quarter. Abu Mahmood pulled one back with a drag flick in the 52nd minute, and just three minutes later Sufyan Khan levelled the score with a powerful penalty-corner strike. The decisive moment came in the 57th minute when Afraz produced a superb deflection to put Pakistan ahead. Moments later, goalkeeper Ali Raza preserved the lead with a crucial penalty-stroke save, ensuring Pakistan’s memorable victory. Ammad was later named Player of the Match.

Elsewhere in the tournament, England booked their place in the final with a commanding 7–1 win over Malaysia and will face Pakistan in Saturday’s title clash. Malaysia and Japan will meet in the bronze-medal playoff, where the winner will still have a chance to qualify for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026. In another match, hosts Egypt defeated Austria 4–0 and will play China for fifth place.