Pakistan’s men’s hockey team booked a place at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 after pulling off a dramatic 4–3 comeback against Japan in the semi-final of the World Cup Qualifiers in Ismailia, Egypt.
Pakistan struck first to take an early 1–0 lead, but Japan turned the match around and surged to a 3–1 advantage, putting the Men in Green under serious pressure. Pakistan’s forwards then mounted a late rally, first bringing the score back to 3–3 before delivering the decisive blow with a late strike to clinch the win.
The victory not only sent Pakistan hockey team into the final of the qualifying tournament, but also confirmed their spot at next year’s World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands, ending an eight-year wait to return to the global stage. Pakistan last qualified for the event in 2018 and missed the most recent edition.
Goal scorers for Pakistan were Imad Muhammad, Abubakar Mahmood, Sufyan Khan, and Afraz. Goalkeeper Ali Raza also played a key role late in the match by stopping a penalty stroke in the closing minutes, helping Pakistan protect the narrow margin.
The comeback win sparked celebrations among fans, with the result being seen as a major statement of resilience as the team, led by coach Roelant Oltmans, now heads into tomorrow’s final with momentum.
