Asian Champions Trophy 2024 : In a thrilling encounter at the 2024 Asian Champions Trophy, India’s hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh delivered a masterclass, scoring two pivotal goals to guide his team to a 2-1 victory over arch rivals Pakistan. This hard fought win, held at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir, China, extended India’s unbeaten run in the tournament and further solidified their status as top contenders for the title.
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Pakistan Strikes First in High Intensity Match
The game began with Pakistan taking the early initiative. Just seven minutes into the first quarter, Nadeem Shaheen capitalized on a quick combination play to score, giving Pakistan a 1-0 lead. This early goal set the tone for a fierce battle between the two longstanding rivals, as both teams looked to assert their dominance in the match.
Harmanpreet Singh’s Instant Response
India, known for their resilience, wasted no time in leveling the score. In the dying moments of the first quarter, India earned a penalty corner. Harmanpreet Singh, calm under pressure, executed a perfect drag flick, sending the ball into the bottom right corner of the goal. His powerful strike caught Pakistan’s defense off guard, making it 1-1 and shifting the momentum in India’s favor.
Harmanpreet Doubles India’s Lead
India carried their newfound energy into the second quarter, continuing to pressure Pakistan’s defense. Another penalty corner came India’s way, and once again, Harmanpreet Singh stepped up. The Indian captain fired a precise shot into the net, securing his brace and giving India a 2-1 lead.
Pakistan’s woes were compounded when one of their key players, Mahmud, was forced to leave the field due to injury, making it harder for them to mount a comeback.
India’s Defense Stands Tall
As the match progressed into the third quarter, Pakistan fought hard to equalize. They earned a penalty corner, but Indian goalkeeper Krishan Pathak delivered a heroic double save, denying Pakistan a crucial goal. Pathak’s incredible performance between the posts helped India maintain their slender 2-1 lead.
India Holds On for Victory
The final quarter was a dramatic one, with both teams pushing for a decisive goal. India aimed to extend their lead, but Pakistan’s defense held strong despite being a man down after Ashraf was sent off. Pakistan, desperate to find an equalizer, launched a series of attacks, but India’s resolute defense and Pathak’s brilliant saves ensured that no further goals were conceded.
India Clinches 2-1 Win Over Pakistan
As the final whistle blew, India emerged victorious with a hard-fought 2-1 win. Harmanpreet Singh’s brace proved to be the difference-maker, as he led from the front and guided his team to another victory. With this win, India finished their group stage campaign undefeated, securing a spot in the semifinals and solidifying their position as a strong contender for the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 title.
India’s impressive run in the tournament has been marked by dominant performances against top Asian teams, including commanding wins over China, Japan, Malaysia, and Korea. The victory over Pakistan further showcased India’s balanced team dynamic, with a potent attack and a rock-solid defense.
With their sights set on the trophy, India continues their journey toward Asian Champions Trophy glory, with Harmanpreet Singh leading the charge.
FAQs
What was the final score of the India vs Pakistan match?
India won the match 2-1
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