DAZHOU: Pakistan secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over hosts China on Tuesday to advance to the semi-finals of the Men’s U18 Asia Cup 2025, maintaining their unbeaten record in the tournament.
Playing at the Dazhou National Hockey Training Centre, Pakistan struck early through Hassan Shahbaz, who netted a precise field goal in the 11th minute, putting the visitors ahead.
The second quarter saw a tense battle, with both sides earning two penalty corners each, but neither was able to capitalize as the scoreline remained unchanged at halftime.
Pakistan doubled their advantage late in the third quarter when Ali Hanzala added another goal from open play. However, China hit back almost immediately through Jiaxing Lin, who converted a penalty corner to bring the deficit down to 2-1.
In the final quarter, China pressed hard for an equaliser, backed by a passionate home crowd. But goalkeeper Ghulam Mustafa stood firm, pulling off a string of crucial saves to help Pakistan hold onto their slender lead.
With the win, Pakistan topped Group A with 12 points and an impressive goal difference of +21, scoring 25 goals and conceding just four across their group matches.
Their road to the semi-finals included a commanding 8-0 win over Hong Kong, a 9-0 demolition of Sri Lanka, and a 6-3 victory over Bangladesh.
Pakistan will now face Malaysia in the semi-finals on July 11 at the same venue, as they aim to continue their dominant run in the tournament and book a place in the final.
