The under-18 men’s hockey team of Pakistan continues to showcase its prowess on the international stage, securing a commanding victory in the Men’s U18 Asia Cup 2025. In their second Group A match, Pakistan overwhelmed Sri Lanka with a decisive 9-0 win at the Dazhou National Hockey Training Centre in Dazhou, China. This victory not only underscores their dominance in the tournament but also highlights the team’s potential to advance even further.
Dominance from the Start
Pakistan wasted no time asserting their authority in the match against Sri Lanka. The team demonstrated exceptional skill and coordination, scoring four goals in quick succession during the first quarter. Abdullah Awan set the tone with an early field goal just four minutes into the game. He was swiftly followed by Zubair Latif, who found the net in the fifth minute. Asam Haider further extended Pakistan’s lead by converting a penalty corner in the seventh minute, and Atif Ali added to the scoreline with another field goal in the 13th minute, giving Pakistan a 4-0 advantage.
Relentless Attack and Tactical Mastery
The offensive strategy of Pakistan remained relentless as they entered the second quarter. Asam Haider continued his impressive performance, scoring two additional goals from penalty corners in the 17th and 24th minutes. By halftime, Pakistan was sitting comfortably with a 6-0 lead, effectively putting the game out of Sri Lanka’s reach.
Maintaining their intensity in the third quarter, the team further solidified their dominance. Adeel showcased his scoring abilities with two goals, netting in the 35th and 42nd minutes. Atif Ali completed his brace with a goal in the 44th minute. Sri Lanka struggled throughout the match, unable to penetrate Pakistan’s solid defense or create significant scoring opportunities. Pakistan saw out the final quarter with ease, ensuring a clean sheet with their 9-0 victory.
Top Performers and Tactical Execution
Asam Haider emerged as the match’s top scorer, contributing three crucial goals, all from penalty corners. His precision and composure under pressure were instrumental in securing Pakistan’s emphatic win. Atif Ali and Adeel also played pivotal roles, each scoring twice and demonstrating their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The team’s performance in the tournament thus far has been nothing short of spectacular. Pakistan currently sits atop Group A, thanks to their earlier 8-0 victory over Hong Kong. This places them in a strong position as they look ahead to their next challenge.
Upcoming Challenges and Strategic Focus
Pakistan’s next match against Bangladesh on Tuesday is set to be a key fixture in their campaign. The team will aim to maintain their flawless record and continue their momentum as they advance through the tournament. The coaching staff will likely focus on refining strategies and ensuring the players remain sharp and focused.
Impressive Start Despite Challenges
Pakistan’s journey in the U18 Asia Cup began with an impressive 8-0 victory over Hong Kong. This remarkable win came despite significant travel setbacks, with the team arriving in China just hours before the match due to visa delays. The lack of a training session or warm-up game did not deter them, as they delivered a stunning performance that overwhelmed their opponents.
In the opening match, Pakistan’s scoring was distributed across the quarters. They found the net once in the second quarter, added two more goals in the third, and launched a relentless offensive in the final quarter, scoring five goals. Shahbaz Hassan, Abdullah Awan, and Mohammad Farooq each contributed two goals, while Amir Sohail and Mohammad Zaman added a goal apiece, showcasing the depth and versatility of the squad.
A Promising Path Forward
As the tournament progresses, Pakistan’s under-18 men’s hockey team continues to demonstrate their potential and determination. Their skillful play, strategic execution, and ability to perform under pressure highlight their readiness to compete at the highest levels. With strong performances in their opening matches, the team has set a high standard for themselves and their competitors, promising an exciting journey ahead in the U18 Asia Cup 2025.
