Pakistan to face England in World Cup Hockey Qualifier final today

2026-03-07 - 10:03

KARACHI – Pakistan and England will clash in the final of the World Cup Hockey Qualifiers today. The decisive match is scheduled to begin at 11:00pm Pakistan Standard Time. Pakistan secured its place in the 2026 Hockey World Cup after a thrilling semi-final victory over Japan, defeating them 4-3. The 2026 World Cup will commence on August 14 in Belgium and the Netherlands. Notably, Pakistan last participated in the Hockey World Cup in 2018, making this qualification a major milestone for the national team. Both Pakistan and England remain unbeaten in the tournament so far, raising expectations for a fiercely competitive and exciting final. Hockey fans across the country are eagerly anticipating the match, which will decide the qualifier title. In the semi-final against Japan, Pakistan came from behind in a tense contest. Four minutes before the final whistle, Japan was awarded a penalty stroke, which was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Ali Raza, securing Pakistan’s spot in the final and their qualification for the World Cup. Goals for Pakistan were scored by Sufiyan Khan, Abu Muhammad, Muhammad Imad, and Afraz. Pakistan had failed to qualify for the previous World Cup, making this achievement particularly significant. On the occasion, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi congratulated the national hockey team on their World Cup qualification. He praised the players for their outstanding performance and noted that the achievement reflects teamwork, dedication, and the abundant hockey talent present in Pakistan. Naqvi further lauded the exceptional performance of captain Imad Shakeel Butt and all team members, expressing hope that the national team will return victorious after the final.