LAHORE: The Lahore Smart City Pink Polo Cup 2025 burst into action on the first day at the historic Jinnah Polo Fields, with two thrilling matches delivering drama, skill, and unforgettable moments.
Spectators filled the stands as eight teams, each featuring at least one female player, commenced their tournament campaigns under the sponsorship of Lahore Smart City. Secretary of Jinnah Polo Fields, Maj (Retd) Adil Rao, along with numerous former polo players, graced the opening ceremony. Maj Rao announced that this four-goal tournament would see eight competing teams and praised the presence and enthusiasm of fans.
Match 1: Rijas/Din Polo vs Master Paints Black: 8/7 Sudden Death
In the first match, Rijas/Din Polo narrowly defeated Master Paints Black 8/7 in a dramatic sudden-death finish during the fifth chukka. The match remained tightly contested from the outset, with both teams exchanging goals and momentum throughout.
The tension peaked as neither side could break the deadlock during regular play, pushing the game into sudden death where the stakes were higher than ever. Ultimately, it was Rijas/Din Polo, who seized the crucial winning goal, clinching victory to the delight of their supporters.
The victory was largely powered by an outstanding individual performance from Raja Samiullah, who scored a remarkable six goals for Rijas/Din Polo. His teammates Faisal Shehzad and Sheikh Muhammad Farhad contributed one goal each, complementing Samiullah’s brilliance. On the opposing side, Raja Temur Nadeem and Eliza Garibay led Master Paints Black’s effort with three goals apiece, while Bilal Hayat Noon added one more goal. Despite their strong showing, Master Paints Black fell just short in the nail-biting encounter.
Match 2: Master Paints vs The Townhouse: 8.5-8
The second match featured an equally gripping contest between Master Paints and The Townhouse, culminating in a narrow 8.5-8 victory for Master Paints, aided by a half-goal handicap advantage. The game unfolded as a fierce battle, with both sides demonstrating skill and determination throughout the chukkas.
For Master Paints, Agha Musa was the standout performer, netting six goals, while Bilal Hayat added two more to the tally. Their half-goal handicap advantage proved decisive in tipping the balance in their favor. On the opposing side, Omar Asjad Malhi scored six goals, showcasing impressive form, while Paula Garibay contributed two goals in support. Despite a valiant effort from The Town Hall, the slender margin meant Master Paints emerged victorious in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The Pink Polo Cup 2025 has begun with a blaze, and expectations are high as teams prepare for the next rounds. With such tight finishes already delivered, fans and players alike anticipate more flair, more goals, and more heartbreaks.
Match Summary & Scorecards
Match 1: Rijas/Din Polo vs Master Paints Black
Final Score: 8-7 (sudden death, fifth chukka)
Rijas/Din Polo: Raja Samiullah 6, Faisal Shehzad 1, Sheikh Muhammad Farhad 1
Master Paints Black: Raja Timor 3, Emelia Garibay 3, Bilal Hayat Noon 1
Match 2: Master Paints vs The Townhouse
Final Score: 8.5-8 (including 0.5 handicap to Master Paints)
Master Paints: Agha Musa 6, Bilal Hayat 2, +0.5 handicap
The Townhouse: Omar Asjad Malhi 6, Paula Garibay 2
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