Pakistan secured a spot in the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup final on June 20, 2025, defeating France 3–2 in a penalty shootout after a 3–3 draw.
In a tense match at Kuala Lumpur’s National Hockey Stadium, Pakistan and France ended in a 3–3 draw after trading goals. France initially took a 2–0 lead with goals from Xavier Esmenjaud and Victor Charlet. However, Pakistan mounted a comeback in the third quarter with goals from Afraz, Sufyan Khan, and Muhammad Hammadudin, taking a 3–2 lead. Charlet then scored a late equaliser from a penalty corner, leading to a shootout. In the shootout, Afraz, Shahid Hannan, and Rana Waheed Ashraf scored for Pakistan, while goalkeeper Hammadudin saved a shot, securing a 3–2 victory for his team.
Pakistan are through to the #FIHNationsCup 2024-25 final! 🤩
Excellent goals in the second half, followed by amazing goalkeeping in the shootout.
📱 Subscribe to https://t.co/71D0pOpuZ8 to follow their journey in the final. #Hockey pic.twitter.com/5vz1uDUMXV
— International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) June 20, 2025Pakistan is now waiting to see who will win the final match between South Korea and New Zealand on June 21, aiming to revive its hockey legacy. The Green Shirts’ resilience, demonstrated in their comeback, indicates a resurgence for the team.
Afraz’s skill and Khan’s drag flick were crucial, while Hammadudin’s shootout heroics secured the victory. Pakistan’s ability to effectively use penalty corners and stay calm under pressure demonstrates their tactical development.
