ISLAMABAD, Mar 05 (APP): Pakistan hockey team captain Ammad Butt has expressed strong confidence in his team’s chances ahead of the semifinal of the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup Qualifier, after the Green Shirts completed an unbeaten run in the pool stage.Pakistan secured victories in all three of their pool matches to advance to the knockout stage, setting up a crucial semifinal clash against Japan scheduled for Friday.Speaking after the team’s impressive pool-stage performance, Ammad Butt said the squad was pleased with its results but remained fully focused on the upcoming knockout encounter.“We have won all three matches in the pool stage, and the way the team has performed so far is very encouraging.
However, the semifinal is extremely important for us because it is a knockout match and we must win it,” he said in a video message.A victory against Japan would secure Pakistan’s place in the final and significantly strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.The captain said the team would use the rest day to prepare thoroughly for the decisive match. “We will give our best to win the semifinal and qualify for the World Cup to present a gift to our nation,” he added.Ammad Butt also thanked the government and the Pakistan Hockey Federation for their continued support.“I am grateful to Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board, for his strong support for Pakistan hockey.
I also thank the Government of Pakistan for listening to the players and facilitating the team in the best possible way,” he said.He added that the players had responded positively to the support by delivering strong performances on the field.The captain also praised the team management for maintaining a positive environment within the squad. He commended head coach Khawaja Junaid, team manager Olympian Tahir Sultan, and the support staff, including the team doctor from the Pakistan Sports Board, for their valuable contributions.“We are only one step away from qualifying for the World Cup.
The players have worked very hard for this moment and their morale is very high,” Ammad said.Appealing for national support, the skipper urged the public to keep the team in their prayers. “I request the entire nation to pray for us. We will try our best to win the semifinal and make Pakistan proud.”A total of nine men’s teams had already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup through continental events, the Pro League, or hosting rights. The remaining places are being decided through two final qualifying tournaments currently underway in Ismailia and Santiago.
The top three teams from each tournament will qualify directly, along with the highest-ranked fourth-placed team across both events. A win over Japan would confirm Pakistan’s place in the World Cup as one of the top finishers.
