Pakistan has officially qualified for the Hockey World Cup 2026 after a thrilling 4-3 victory over Japan in the semi-final of the World Cup qualifying tournament on Friday. The Men in Green maintained their unbeaten streak in the tournament, securing their place in the prestigious global event and ending an eight-year wait to return to the World Cup stage. The match, held in Egypt, saw Pakistan take an early lead with a goal in the first quarter, while three more crucial goals were added in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
The goal scorers for Pakistan were Imad Muhammad, Abubakar Mahmood, Sufyan Khan, and Afraz, each contributing to the team’s vital triumph. However, the victory was not without drama. Japan was awarded a penalty stroke just four minutes before the final whistle, which could have leveled the score. Pakistan’s goalkeeper, Ali Raza, produced a match-defining save by blocking the stroke, preserving Pakistan’s narrow lead and securing their qualification for the World Cup while also ensuring a spot in the tournament final.
The Pakistan Hockey Federation praised the team’s performance, with President Mohiuddin Wani stating that the athletes played “excellently in nervous competition.” The achievement was also acknowledged by Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who lauded the players for their hard work, teamwork, and dedication. “The players performed brilliantly in the tournament and qualified for the World Cup after eight years. This success is the result of teamwork and hard work of the players,” he said. Naqvi also praised captain Imad Shakeel Butt for his leadership and emphasized that the team’s overall performance reflects Pakistan’s continuing hockey talent.
Pakistan will now prepare for the tournament, scheduled to begin on August 14 this year in Belgium and the Netherlands. This qualification marks a significant comeback for Pakistan, who missed the previous edition of the World Cup and last competed in the tournament in 2018. Fans and analysts are hopeful that with this momentum, the national team can make a strong run and potentially return with the trophy. The semi-final victory over Japan not only showcases Pakistan’s hockey talent but also reinforces the country’s determination to reclaim its position among the world’s top hockey nations.
