Pakistan continued their dominant run in the 2024 Junior Asia Cup Hockey with a commanding 6-0 victory over Bangladesh in Muscat, Oman, on Thursday. This win follows their impressive 7-2 triumph over China, securing their position at the top of Pool B.
Sufyan Khan Shines Once Again
Rising star Sufyan Khan was the standout performer, delivering a stunning hat-trick that anchored Pakistan’s emphatic win. The scoring began in the 23rd minute when Sufyan converted a penalty corner to give Pakistan an early lead.
Mohammad Ammad soon doubled the advantage with a well-executed field goal, pushing the score to 2-0 before halftime.
Relentless Attack
Sufyan continued his brilliant form, adding two more goals in the 32nd and 43rd minutes to complete his hat-trick. Rana Waleed extended the lead further in the 51st minute, and Zakiya Hayat sealed the victory with a sixth goal in the final minute.
Ammad’s outstanding all-around performance earned him the Player of the Match award, recognizing his crucial role in Pakistan’s dominant display.
Next Challenge: Oman
With two consecutive victories, Pakistan now looks ahead to their next match against hosts Oman on November 30, where they aim to maintain their unbeaten streak and secure a spot in the semi-finals.
Junior Asia Cup Pool B Standings
| Pos | Team | Pld | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Malaysia | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 14 | 3 | +11 | 6 | Semi-finals & 2025 Junior World Cup |
| 2 | Pakistan | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 13 | 2 | +11 | 6 | Semi-finals & 2025 Junior World Cup |
| 3 | Bangladesh | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 7 | −4 | 3 | |
| 4 | China | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 12 | −8 | 0 | |
| 5 | Oman (H) | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 12 | −10 | 0 |
Pakistan’s impressive performance continues to highlight their strength as a top contender for the Junior Asia Cup and the 2025 Junior World Cup qualification.
