In a significant development, Pakistan has clinched a spot in the semi-finals of the Paris Olympics Qualifiers after their last group match against Malaysia ended in a 3-3 draw in Muscat, Oman.
With this outcome, the Men in Green are just one victory away from securing qualification for the Paris Olympics, as the top three teams from the qualifiers will earn a spot.
Pakistan secured a spot in the final four based on a superior goal average compared to China. In a previous group match, Great Britain defeated China 6-0, providing an opportunity for Pakistan to reach the semi-finals even if their upcoming game against Malaysia ends in a draw.
Scoring goals for Pakistan were Khan Sufyan, Ammad Butt, and Rana Waheed, while Sasri Fitri, Abu Kamal, and Ashari Farhan netted goals for Malaysia.
The next challenge for Pakistan is the semi-final against Germany on January 20, while Great Britain will face New Zealand in the other semi-final.
Earlier in the tournament, Pakistan secured their first win in the Paris Olympics Qualifiers by defeating China 2-0, following a 6-1 loss to England in their opening match on Monday.
Abdul Hanan Shahid scored the lone goal for Pakistan in that match, while England displayed superior strategy and execution.
The teams are divided into two pools: Pool A includes Great Britain, Malaysia, Pakistan, and China, while Pool B consists of Germany, New Zealand, Canada, and Chile.
