Pakistan Hockey performed a World Cup miracle with a dramatic win over Japan.
Pakistan staged a memorable performance at the 2026 Hockey World Cup to defeat Japan 4-3, fighting back from a two-goal deficit and ending a 16-year wait to win the World Cup.
The match started with Japan in control as Hyota Yamada and Keito Tanaka scored in the opening quarter to put Pakistan 2-0 down.
Instead of giving up, Pakistan responded with determination. Rana Waheed Ashraf pulled one back in the second quarter to give the Green Shirts renewed hope before half time. Pakistan came out with even more energy after the break. In just two minutes of the third quarter, Rana Waheed Ashraf scored the second goal to tie the match 2-2.
The comeback continued moments later when Mohammad Hammaduddin found the back of the net to put Pakistan 3-2 up. Japan quickly equalized through Koji Yamasaki, setting up a thrilling 3-3 final.
Pakistan then produced the winning moment in the 40th minute when Hanan Shahid scored to restore the Green Shirts’ lead to 4-3. Japan pushed hard for another equalizer during the closing stages, but Pakistan’s defense held firm until the final whistle.
The victory is a big boost for Pakistan Hockey and ends a long World Cup drought. Pakistan’s last World Cup win was in 2010 when they beat Spain 2-1. The national team was eliminated from the 2014 World Cup and returned to the competition in 2018 but failed to win. His presence at the 2026 tournament therefore marks a significant return after an eight-year absence.
Pakistan had a tough main round this time around, losing to England and their arch-rivals while drawing 3-3 with Wales. With one point, they moved from 9th to 16th in the ranking stage. But the Green Shirts responded brilliantly against Japan.
A 0-2 deficit turned into a 4-3 victory as Pakistan showed resilience, fighting spirit and attacking quality to give fans a night to celebrate and end their long wait for a World Cup win.
The post Pakistan Hockey showed the miracle of the World Cup with a dramatic win against Japan appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.
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