In a disappointing turn of events, Pakistan lost against long-standing rival India in the final match of the Junior Asia Cup 2023 in Salalah, Oman, despite a series of consecutive victories. The match concluded with a score of 2-1 in favor of India.
India’s lead was established in the 13th minute with a goal by Angad Bar Singh. Shortly after, Araijeet Singh Hundal added another goal to India’s tally, securing a two-goal lead.
Pakistan’s lone goal was scored by Ali Basharat in the 38th minute, assisted by his teammate Shahid Abdul.
Although Pakistan exhibited aggressive play in the second half, India’s robust defense successfully withstood its efforts.
India concluded the tournament undefeated, whereas Pakistan’s only loss occurred in the final.
Despite the overall team loss, individual accomplishments for Pakistan were significant. Abdul Hannan Shahid received the Player of the Tournament award, and Abdul Rahman emerged as the tournament’s top scorer.
This was not the first time these two teams faced each other in the tournament finals; they previously clashed in 2015 in Malaysia, where India prevailed with a score of 6-2 against Pakistan.
This win marks India’s fourth championship at the Men’s Junior Asia Cup, having previously triumphed in 2004, 2008 and 2015. Pakistan had victories in 1988, 1992 and 1996.
Regrettably, it’s been reported that the Pakistan junior hockey team did not receive their daily allowance during their time in the Asia Cup in Oman. The players and officials were entitled to $100 daily, but the lack of funds obstructed the process.
Before departing for the tournament, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) repeatedly requested funding from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB). However, the PHF had to cover the costs of the squad’s tickets and accommodation out of its budget.
