Asian Hockey Champions Trophy: Hosts China Beat Pakistan To Storm Into Final For First Time
24th August 2023
On Thursday, in front of their home crowd, China defeated Pakistan 3-1 to advance to the championship game of the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy for the first time ever.
Assistant coach Inoke Haeata:
"I think the boys stood out in this critical match," said assistant coach Inoke Haeata. "I am happy that they executed our strategies properly."
First-ever win for China:
For the Chinese, it was a historic triumph as they had never before advanced past the semifinals of this competition. The victory also represented Pakistan's third consecutive loss in the competition, following defeats to Japan and South Korea.
After a goalless first quarter, China took the lead in the 18th minute through a penalty corner converted by Guo Zhicheng. Pakistan equalized in the 22nd minute through Afraz in a penalty corner, but China regained the lead just before halftime with a field goal from Liu Zhihao.
In the third quarter, China extended their lead with a penalty corner goal from Wang Jianwei. Pakistan pressed for an equalizer in the fourth quarter, but China's defense held strong to secure the victory.
China will now face the winner of the other semifinal match between Japan and South Korea in the final on Saturday.
In the bronze medal match, Pakistan will take on the loser of the Japan-South Korea semifinal.
Pakistan's coach Siebe Jan Brenninkmeijer will now look to lift his team for the bronze medal match.
Coach Siebe Jan Brenninkmeijer, who took over the Pakistan team in March, will have his work cut out for him as he looks to rally his team for the bronze medal match.
Pakistan, the most successful team in the history of the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy with four titles, will be eager to end the tournament on a high note.
The tournament has been a valuable experience for the young Chinese team.
For China, the tournament has been a learning experience for the young team. The team has shown a lot of promise and potential, and will be looking to make further progress in the years to come.
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