Pakistan’s hopes of lifting the Hockey World Cup Qualifier title were shattered as England defeated Pakistan 4–1 in a disappointing final in Ismailia, Egypt.
The match began with high expectations for Pakistan, but both teams failed to score in the first quarter. England eventually broke the deadlock in the second quarter, putting Pakistan under pressure.
The situation worsened in the third quarter when Samuel Hooper struck twice in quick succession, leaving Pakistan struggling to recover.
Pakistan showed a brief spark of hope when Rana Waleed managed to score and reduce the deficit. However, England dashed Pakistan’s comeback hopes by scoring a fourth goal in the final quarter, sealing a convincing victory.
Despite the painful defeat in the final, Pakistan finished the tournament as runner-up and had already secured qualification for the Hockey World Cup after winning four consecutive matches earlier in the event.
The upcoming Hockey World Cup will begin on August 14 this year in Belgium and the Netherlands, where Pakistan will aim to bounce back and restore its pride on the global stage.
