FIH Nations Cup: Pakistan’s Opening Match Against Malaysia Ends in 3-3 Draw

Match Overview
Pakistan kicked off their 2025 FIH Hockey Nations Cup campaign in Kuala Lumpur with a pulsating 3‑3 draw against hosts Malaysia at the National Hockey Stadium on June 15, 2025 . Despite holding a two-goal lead deep into the game, the Green Shirts could not see out the victory as Malaysia staged a dramatic recovery in the final quarter.

First-Half Dominance by Pakistan
Pakistan seized control early on, snatching a 2‑0 lead by the end of the first quarter. Nadeem Ahmad opened the scoring with a slick field goal in the 6th minute, assisted by Sufyan Khan, followed shortly by Abdul Rehman’s crisp penalty corner strike in the 9th minute . The Green Shirts maintained pressure through the second and third periods, effectively stifling Malaysia’s attacking momentum .

Malaysia’s FIH -Quarter Response
The fourth quarter witnessed an electrifying turnaround. Fitri Saari emerged first, scoring for Malaysia in the 49th minute to halven the deficit . Shortly after, Syed Mohd Syafiq Syed Cholan leveled the game 2‑2 via a penalty corner conversion in the 52nd minute .

Pakistan responded swiftly with Waheed Ashraf Rana restoring their lead just two minutes later in the 54th minute . However, Malaysia remained resilient; Cholan struck again in the 56th minute to snatch the equalizer and secure a hard-earned 3‑3 draw .

Key Performers

• Nadeem Ahmad delivered an impressive field goal early to energize Pakistan’s start .
• Abdul Rehman ensured a comfortable lead with his sharp penalty corner finish .
• Syed Cholan emerged as a standout for Malaysia, scoring twice—both from penalty corners—to claim Player of the Match honors .
• Rana Waheed Ashraf provided Pakistan’s third goal, restoring temporary supremacy .

Tactical Shifts and Game Dynamics
Pakistan’s approach in the first three quarters was structured and disciplined. Their double-goal surge in the opening quarter put Malaysia under consistent pressure. However, as fatigue set in and tactics shifted, the Green Shirts became vulnerable to Malaysia’s quick penalty corner executions.

Malaysia’s fourth-quarter resurgence showcased disciplined adaptation. They exploited lapses in Pakistan’s penalty corner defense and capitalized on the shift in momentum. Matches officials also issued several cards in the closing minutes, reflecting the heated and intense atmosphere on the pitch .

Stakes and Tournament Context
Both teams are competing in Pool B, which includes New Zealand and Japan. Following this draw, Pakistan’s next test is against Japan on June 16, ahead of a pivotal showdown with New Zealand on June 18.

The Nations Cup winner earns vital promotion to the 2025‑26 FIH Pro League season. As an exit route for Pro League qualification, every match carries high stakes. The early tie means both Pakistan and Malaysia will need strong performances in their upcoming fixtures to dominate Pool B and secure a semifinal berth.

Crowd and Atmosphere
The electric Kuala Lumpur crowd played a pivotal role. Their support buoyed Malaysia throughout, especially during the decisive fourth-quarter comeback . The passionate atmosphere underscored national pride and added to the drama of this final-period spectacle.

This thrilling 3‑3 draw sets the tone for what promises to be a tightly contested Nations Cup, with both Pakistan and Malaysia still very much alive in Pool B contention.