Pakistan qualify for 2026 hockey world cup after eight years

Pakistan booked their place in the 2026 Hockey World Cup after defeating Japan 4-3 in a thrilling semifinal of the World Cup qualifiers being played in Egypt, ending an eight-year absence from the global event.

The Green Shirts produced a spirited comeback in a high-intensity contest to secure victory and confirm their ticket to the prestigious tournament.

Pakistan started the match on an aggressive note, with Muhammad Imad opening the scoring in the ninth minute to give his side an early lead. Japan, however, responded strongly and equalised in the 21st minute.

The Japanese side then seized momentum, scoring twice more in the 35th and 41st minutes to take a commanding 3-1 lead against Pakistan.

Facing a two-goal deficit, Pakistan mounted a dramatic comeback in the final quarter.

Abu Muhammad pulled one back in the 52nd minute to reduce the deficit, before Sufyan Khan struck in the 55th minute to level the score.

Moments later, Afraz scored the decisive goal in the 57th minute, putting Pakistan ahead 4-3 and completing a remarkable turnaround.

Japan pressed hard in the closing moments, but Pakistan goalkeeper Ali Raza produced a crucial save by denying a penalty stroke, helping his side secure the victory.

With the win, Pakistan confirmed qualification for the Hockey World Cup for the first time in eight years, a milestone being seen as a significant boost for the country’s national sport.

President of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) Mohiuddin Wani and Director General Pakistan Sports Board Yasir Pirzada congratulated the national team on qualifying for the World Cup.

PHF President Wani praised the players for delivering an excellent performance in a nerve-wracking contest.

Meanwhile, Olympians Islahuddin Siddiqui, Hassan Sardar and Samiullah Khan also expressed happiness and extended their best wishes to the team on its success.