New Zealand Outclass Pakistan 4-3 in Nations Cup Thriller; Pakistan’s Semi-Final Hopes Dim

DNA

KUALA LUMPUR – JUNE 18 (DNA): In a high-octane encounter at the FIH Nations Cup Hockey in Malaysia, New Zealand edged past Pakistan with a 4-3 victory, dealing a serious blow to Pakistan’s hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals. Despite a spirited performance in the early phases of the match, the Green Shirts faltered in the crucial final quarters, allowing the Black Sticks to seize the advantage and ultimately clinch the game.

Pakistan started the match with intensity and purpose, displaying aggressive play and creating early scoring opportunities. However, it was New Zealand who drew first blood, capitalizing on a swift counterattack to take a 1-0 lead. The setback did little to rattle the Pakistani side, as young forward Abdul Rahman stepped up to level the score through a brilliantly executed penalty corner.

Riding high on the momentum, Pakistan continued to press forward. Abdul Rahman struck again, scoring his second goal of the match, showcasing excellent stickwork and composure in front of goal. Soon after, Rana Waheed added a third for Pakistan, giving them a well-deserved 3-2 lead by the end of the second quarter.

But the tide turned dramatically in the latter half of the match. New Zealand regrouped effectively and launched a relentless assault on the Pakistani defense. Demonstrating clinical precision in converting penalty corners, the Black Sticks punished Pakistan’s defensive lapses with two quick goals, taking the lead once again.

Pakistan’s performance deteriorated significantly in the third and fourth quarters. The team looked disjointed and struggled to maintain structure both in defense and attack. Miscommunication, unforced errors, and poor positioning plagued the Green Shirts, who failed to mount any serious comeback in the dying moments of the match.

Much of the blame also falls on Pakistan’s goalkeepers, who were unable to rise to the occasion. Both custodians failed to stop New Zealand’s drag flicks and close-range attempts, leaving the defense exposed and under pressure.

New Zealand, on the other hand, maintained discipline, composure, and tactical awareness throughout the match. Their ability to convert all their penalty corners proved to be the decisive factor in the outcome. With this victory, New Zealand strengthens their position in the tournament and inches closer to the semi-final stage.

For Pakistan, the loss is a significant setback. With just one match remaining in the group stage, their chances of progressing to the semi-finals now depend not only on their own performance but also on the outcomes of other fixtures. The defeat also raises serious concerns about team coordination, fitness, and goalkeeping — all areas that require urgent attention from the coaching staff.

As the Nations Cup progresses, Pakistan will now have to regroup quickly and deliver a flawless performance in their next match, while hoping for favorable results elsewhere. Otherwise, what began as a promising campaign may soon end in disappointment.