New Zealand Secures Victory Over Pakistan in FIH Nations Cup

KUALA LUMPUR: In a Pool B showdown at the National Hockey Stadium on Wednesday, Scott Cosslett’s exceptional hat-trick propelled New Zealand to a 4-3 comeback victory against Pakistan at the FIH Nations Cup.

Pakistan established early dominance, finishing the initial quarter with a 3-1 advantage.

New Zealand initially took the lead with a goal from Nic Woods in the sixth minute. However, Pakistan quickly countered with two goals by Abdul Rehman in the 13th and 14th minutes.

Rana Waheed Ashraf further increased Pakistan’s lead with a third goal in the 28th minute, seemingly solidifying their control of the match.

However, New Zealand displayed resilience in the second half. Scott Cosslett turned the tide, scoring twice in the third quarter, specifically in the 43rd and 45th minutes, to equalize the score.

Cosslett then completed his hat-trick in the 52nd minute through a penalty corner, securing a dramatic turnaround and giving New Zealand a 4-3 lead.

Previously, Pakistan’s tournament opener against Malaysia concluded in a 3-3 draw, despite Pakistan holding the lead on two occasions.

Ahmed Nadeem and Abdul Rehman provided Pakistan with an initial advantage, scoring two rapid goals in the first quarter, enabling them to enter the final quarter with a comfortable 2-0 lead.

Malaysia responded strongly in the fourth quarter, with Fitri Saari and Syed Cholan scoring in quick succession to level the score.

Although Rana Waheed Ashraf briefly restored Pakistan’s lead, Malaysia swiftly equalized as Cholan scored his second goal, making the score 3-3.

In their subsequent match, Pakistan narrowly defeated Japan 3-2 in a thrilling contest, staging a comeback from a 2-1 deficit to secure a hard-fought victory.

This defeat presents a notable setback to Pakistan’s aspirations for the semi-finals, which now depend on the outcome of the Malaysia versus Japan match.

A loss for Malaysia could still enable Pakistan to progress to the final four.

France and Korea have already secured their places in the semi-finals from Pool A.