ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan national hockey team delivered a dominant performance on Thursday, defeating South Korea 3–1 in a fiercely contested first hockey test match at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium.
Despite a slow start from both sides, Pakistan’s tactical prowess and sharp finishing proved decisive over the four quarters.
Match Breakdown
First Quarter: Both teams adopted a cautious approach, with solid defenses on either side ensuring a goalless first 15 minutes.
Second Quarter: The action picked up dramatically in the 21st minute when Sufyan Khan broke the deadlock to give Pakistan a 1–0 lead. South Korea responded swiftly four minutes later through Lee Hon-won, who leveled the score at 1–1. However, just before the half-time whistle, Abu Bakr Mahmood restored Pakistan’s advantage with a crucial goal.
Third & Fourth Quarters: Maintaining their momentum after the break, Pakistan extended their lead as Sufyan Khan struck again to score his second goal of the match, bringing the scoreline to 3–1.
Pakistan’s defense held firm through the final quarter to secure a convincing victory in the series opener.
Looking Ahead: The two sides will clash once again in the second hockey test on August 1, where South Korea will aim to bounce back and Pakistan will look to seal the series.
