Pakistan on Friday qualified for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 after defeating Japan, securing a place in the tournament for the first time in eight years.
In the semifinal of the World Cup Hockey Qualifier being held in Egypt, Pakistan beat Japan 4–3 in a thrilling contest to advance to the final.
Goalkeeper Ali Raza played a decisive role by saving a penalty stroke to seal the victory for Pakistan.
Japan earned a penalty stroke four minutes before the end of the match, but Ali Raza blocked the attempt, ensuring a crucial win for his side. Pakistan’s goals were scored by Sufyan Khan, Abu Muhammad, Muhammad Imad, and Afraz.
By winning the semifinal of the qualifier, Pakistan secured qualification for the Hockey World Cup after an eight-year gap.
The national team will now feature in the World Cup for the first time since 2018, having failed to qualify for the previous edition.
The Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from August 14 to August 30 in Belgium and the Netherlands.
