ISLAMABAD, Aug 22 (IN): Pakistan produced a sensational comeback to defeat Japan 4-3 in a thrilling encounter at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, being held in Belgium and the Netherlands.Japan made a flying start, with Hyota Yamada opening the scoring in the 7th minute before Kaito Tanaka doubled the lead in the 15th minute to put Japan 2-0 ahead.Pakistan responded brilliantly in the second quarter, with Rana Waheed Ashraf pulling one back in the 22nd minute.
Ashraf struck again in the 32nd minute to level the score at 2-2.Just a minute later, Hammaduddin Muhammad completed Pakistan’s stunning turnaround by scoring in the 33rd minute to give his side a 3-2 lead.
Japan fought back quickly, with Koji Yamasaki finding the net in the 36th minute to restore parity at 3-3.Pakistan, however, refused to surrender its advantage. Shahid Hannan scored the decisive goal in the 41st minute to put Pakistan back in front at 4-3.Japan mounted intense pressure in the closing stages in search of an equalizer, but Pakistan’s resolute defense held firm to secure a memorable victory.Pakistan scorers: Rana Waheed Ashraf (22′, 32′), Hammaduddin Muhammad (33′), Shahid Hannan (41′).Japan scorers: Hyota Yamada (7′), Kaito Tanaka (15′), Koji Yamasaki (36′).The hard-fought victory gives Pakistan a crucial boost in their World Cup campaign.
