Pakistan Qualifies for FIH Nations Cup Final After Penalty Shootout Victory Against France

LAHORE: Pakistan secured a spot in the FIH Nations Cup final after a tense penalty shootout victory against France on Friday. Following the win, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi extended his congratulations to the national men’s hockey team.

Naqvi, in a statement issued by the PCB, commended the national players, highlighting their teamwork as crucial to overcoming France in a tightly contested match.

The PCB Chairman also acknowledged the team management for their contribution to this significant triumph.

“The Pakistani team demonstrated exceptional teamwork to defeat France and advance to the final. Their remarkable performance deserves praise,” Naqvi stated.

He further added, “I congratulate both the team management and the players. Each player demonstrated their utmost potential on the field.”

Mohsin Naqvi expressed optimism that the national team would replicate this performance in the final and secure the trophy.

“There is positive news emerging for Pakistan across various sectors, including sports. It is our hope that the Pakistani hockey team will emerge victorious in the final and return home as champions,” he concluded.

The green shirts prevailed over France 3-2 in the penalty shootout, securing their place in the FIH Nations Cup final after a 3-3 draw at full time.

Pakistan’s goalkeeper, Muneeb Ur-Rehman, successfully blocked three attempts from France, while Rana Waheed Ashraf, Hannan Shahid, and Afraz each scored for Pakistan, securing a rewarding victory.

The team is set to compete against either New Zealand or Korea in the final match on Saturday.

During regulation time, Afraz, Sufyan Khan, and Muhammad Hammadudin each scored one goal.