Pakistan secure semi-final spot at FIH World Cup qualifier after 4-2 win over Austria

Pakistan advanced to the semi-finals of the FIH Men’s World Cup qualifying event in Ismailia, Egypt, following a 4-2 victory against Austria on Wednesday. The win also ensured that Pakistan finished at the top of Pool ‘B’ in the eight-team tournament.

The match saw Abu Bakr Mahmood play a pivotal role for Pakistan, scoring twice to help his side secure the crucial win. Afraz opened the scoring for Pakistan with a field goal in the fourth minute of the first quarter, giving the team an early advantage.

Despite earning four penalty corners in the second quarter, Pakistan were unable to convert any of them into goals. The third quarter followed a similar pattern, with Pakistan earning another four penalty corners but failing to capitalize. However, Abu Bakr broke the deadlock in the 44th minute, extending Pakistan’s lead to 2-0.

Austria responded with goals from Kellner Maximilian and Scholz Maximilian, but Pakistan maintained their lead throughout the match. Mohammad Sufiyan Khan also contributed to the scoreline for Pakistan. The final quarter saw Austria earn a couple of penalty corners, but they were unable to narrow the gap further.

With this result, Pakistan are now just one win away from qualifying for the FIH World Cup. The team’s performance in the pool stage has positioned them strongly as they head into the semi-finals of the tournament.