Japan defeat Pakistan in Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup final

After a nail-biting penalty shootout, Japan defeated Pakistan 4-1 in the final match of the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup 2024 held in Malaysia.

The match was a nail-biter, with Japan drawing first blood in the first half due to Pakistan's weak defense. 

However, Ijaz Ahmed's exceptional diving effort in the second half leveled the score at 1-1, and then the Green Shirts took the lead with two goals in rapid succession.

Later, Japan equalised the match with 2-2, leaving fans in curiosity. Japan clinched the final in a penalty shootout against Pakistan with 4-1 score.

Green Shirts have performed extraordinarily during the entire event with three wins and two ties out of five matches.

Pakistan also secured second place on the table with 11 points in the mega tournament, while Japan was first on the list.

It was the 10th time that Pakistan had made it to the final of the competition, having won it thrice. 

Pakistan last won the title in 2003, beating Germany 1-0. Its previous appearance in the final was back in 2011, losing to Australia 2-3.

Pakistan came third in the last edition which was also held in Ipoh in 2022. Malaysia were the defending champions of this year’s edition.