Asian Champions Trophy: Pakistan thrash China 6-1 to finish fifth | Hockey News

NEW DELHI: Pakistan’s hockey team showcased its prowess as they defeated China with a commanding score of 6-1 in the fifth-place play-off match of the Asian Champions Trophy Hockey tournament on Friday. The clash proved to be a satisfying consolation win for Pakistan, who failed to enter the semis for the first time in the tournament.

Muhammad Khan and Muhammad Ammad were the stars of the match for Pakistan, each contributing with a remarkable brace. Abdul Shahid and Abdul Rana further fueled Pakistan’s victory with one goal each. China’s sole goal came from the stick of Benhai Chen.
With their eyes also set on the upcoming Junior World Hockey Championship, Pakistan fielded a predominantly junior lineup, while the senior team continued their preparations for the Asian Games in Hangzhou.

The game’s tone was set from the opening minutes, as both sides initiated attacks, but it was Pakistan who took the lead in the ninth minute. Ammad converted a close-range tap-in to provide the early advantage.

Pakistan continued their momentum, and Muhammad Khan struck twice in quick succession. First, he capitalised on a penalty corner in the next minute, and then repeated the feat shortly after, once again from a penalty corner situation.
The Pakistani team showcased their fluid gameplay as Shahid found the net in the 15th minute, capitalising on an assist from a sequence of passes exchanged between Abdul Rana and Ammad.
China regrouped during the break, displaying more aggression in their attacks. Their efforts bore fruit when Chen scored from a penalty corner in the 35th minute.
Despite the change in goalkeepers for Pakistan and some close attempts by China, the score remained unchanged as the third quarter concluded.
As the match entered its final quarter, Pakistan maintained their offensive momentum. Ammad capitalised on a penalty corner opportunity in the 52nd minute, securing his second goal of the match.
Not to be outdone, Abdul Rana added the finishing touch in a solo effort just three minutes later, eluding defenders and netting Pakistan’s sixth goal.
China persisted in their offensive efforts during the final moments of the match. However, their attempts were in vain as Pakistan sealed a comprehensive victory, showcasing their dominance on the field.
(With inputs from PTI)