MUSCAT: Pakistan rede-emed themselves in the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers with a 2-0 victory over China at the Oman Hockey Stadium on Tuesday, a day after receiving a 6-1 drubbing at the hands of Great Britain in their opener.

       The first quarter of the Pool ‘A’ encounter saw an intense battle, with both Pakistan and China displaying strong defensive strategies, resulting in a goalless scoreline. The teams continued to lock horns throughout the second quarter, maintaining the deadlock.

       The turning point came in the third quarter when Pakistan’s Abu Mahmood executed a precise penalty corner at the 42nd minute, giving his team a crucial 1-0 lead. The Chinese side fought valiantly but struggled to find the back of the net.

       As the clock ticked into the 51st minute, Pakistan extended their lead with another successful penalty corner, this time courtesy of Abdul Rehman, the goal placing additional pressure on China to stage a comeback.

       China, however, stayed a place above Pakistan despite being equal on points in the pool standings — the latter’s goal difference putting them on slight disadvantage.

       Great Britain, meanwhile, are placed top, owing to their big win over Pakistan. Malaysia, with a defeat in their only match so far, are bottom of the points table.

       Three-time Olympic champions Pakistan have failed to qualify for the last two editions of the Games.

       Published in Dawn, January 17th, 2024