Pakistan produced an impressive display to defeat South Korea 3-1 on Thursday at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium in Islamabad, securing a memorable victory in a match that marked a significant milestone for the country’s national sport.
The contest began cautiously, with both teams cancelling each other out in a tightly contested opening quarter that ended without a goal.
Pakistan found its rhythm in the second quarter and broke the deadlock in the 21st minute when drag-flick specialist Muhammad Sufyan Khan converted a penalty corner with a powerful strike.
South Korea responded before halftime through Young Ji-hun, who levelled the score from a penalty corner in the 29th minute.
The hosts regained the lead moments later, as Mahmood Abu Bakar finished off a swift counter-attack with a field goal in the 30th minute, giving Pakistan a 2-1 advantage heading into the break.
Pakistan maintained control after halftime, and Sufyan Khan struck again in the 38th minute, converting his second penalty corner of the match to extend the lead and seal a convincing 3-1 victory.
The result highlighted Pakistan’s growing confidence on home soil and provided another encouraging performance as the national team continues its efforts to revive its fortunes in international hockey.