Pakistan beat Austria 4-2 to reach semi-finals in FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup Qualifier

Pakistan beat Austria 4-2 in their third match of the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup Qualifier Round, finishing at the top of the pool standings. The win also secured Pakistan a place in the semi-finals of the tournament.

The match was played at the Suez Canal Hockey Stadium. Pakistan showed strong teamwork and control throughout most of the game.

Forward Abu Bakar Mahmood led Pakistan’s attack with two goals. His performance helped the team maintain pressure on the Austrian defence.

Afraz also scored one goal for Pakistan. Muhammad Sufyan Khan added another goal to complete the team’s tally in the match.

Austria tried to respond and managed to score two goals. Their goals came from players Kellner and Scholz during the match.

Despite Austria’s efforts, Pakistan maintained control and secured a 4-2 victory. The result kept Pakistan unbeaten in the pool stage of the qualifiers.

Pakistan captain Ammad Shakeel Butt said after the match that strong team unity played an important role in the team’s success.

He said the players have high confidence and strong team spirit. According to him, the team is fully focused on performing well in the semi-final.

Butt also expressed hope that Pakistan can qualify for the 2026 Hockey World Cup.

Officials of the Pakistan Hockey Federation congratulated the team for their performance in the pool stage. The officials included PHF President Mohyuddin Ahmed Wani, committee members Islahuddin Siddiqui and Hassan Sardar, and Chief Selector Samiullah Khan.

They appreciated the team for remaining unbeaten and wished them success in the upcoming semi-final match.

Ammad Shakeel Butt said the team wants to dedicate this achievement to the people of Pakistan. He added that the players aim to bring pride and success back to the country through strong performances.