Pakistan’s junior hockey team’s performance remains encouraging amid mixed results | Sports

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The Pakistan Junior Hockey Team recently kicked off their campaign in the 13th Sultan of Johor Cup 2025 in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, finishing fourth after a remarkable run that showed glimpses of promise and motivation.

Although the results were mixed, Pakistan’s performance offered encouraging signs for the future – a combination of raw talent, fighting spirit and areas that demand immediate attention.

A dream start against Malaysia

Pakistan started the tournament strongly, beating hosts Malaysia 7-2 in their opening match. Jeet initially appeared to be a promising campaign. Penalty corner specialist Mohammad Sufian Khan was the hero of the day, scoring a hat-trick to earn the Man of the Match award.

Captain Abdul Hanan Shahid and forwards Nadeem Khan and Hamza Fayaz also scored with clinical finishes, showcasing Pakistan’s attacking flair and penalty kick – a department that has historically been Pakistan’s strength. The victory not only boosted morale but also indicated that the junior side has the technical skills and cohesion to take on top teams.

A reality check against Britain

The excitement, however, was short-lived. In their second match, Great Britain thrashed Pakistan 5–1, exposing defensive gaps and poor finishing. While Pakistan created a number of scoring chances, their inability to convert cost them dearly.

Britain’s Jonny and Henry scored two goals, while Cady added another. Again, Sufyan Khan was Pakistan’s lone scorer. The match highlighted a recurring problem for Pakistan: consistency under pressure.

High intensity draw against India

In what was arguably the most anticipated match of the tournament, Pakistan faced Arcolas India in a thrilling 3–3 draw on 14 October. The encounter was a true reflection of subcontinental hockey – fast-paced, emotional and hard-fought.

Team captain Hanan Shahid opened the scoring with a penalty stroke, while Sufyan Khan once again proved his mettle by netting two crucial goals from penalty corners. India responded through Arijit, Anand, and Manmeet Singh, but Pakistan’s defensive unit held firm in the closing stages to salvage a draw.

This performance reflects Pakistan’s mental toughness and adaptability. Despite India winning nine penalty corners to Pakistan’s six, the Green Shirts’ penalty corner defense stood firm – a marked improvement from their match against Great Britain.

A heartbreak against New Zealand proves costly as a memory prospect

In their fourth tour, Pakistan faced New Zealand, who edged them out 3–2 in another closely fought contest. Sufyan Khan, the standout player of the tournament for Pakistan, maintained his remarkable consistency, once again striking twice through penalty corners.

However, defensive errors and midfield miscues allowed New Zealand’s Rocco, Jakarta and Jordan to score a goal each, sealing Pakistan’s second defeat. The loss raised questions about Pakistan’s ability to maintain composure in crunch moments. This is an area that worries the senior team as well.

A spirit full of character against Australia

Pakistan ended the group stage on an encouraging note, drawing 3-3 with Australia, one of the world’s top junior sides. Captain Hunan Shahid scored twice, and Saifullah added a third as Pakistan battled hard to share the points with a formidable opponent.

Australia’s Toby, Oscar and Lynn scored a goal each, but Pakistan’s resilience in coming from behind was commendable. The team showed significant improvement in coordination and tactical balance, suggesting that the lessons of earlier defeats are starting to come into play.

Pakistan is at the fourth position

With one win, two draws, and two losses in the group stage, Pakistan collected five points and finished fourth in the table – ahead of Malaysia and New Zealand.

In the third/fourth place play-off, Pakistan lost easily to Great Britain 3–2. Hunan Shahid and Sufian Khan both scored again, but defensive errors in the final quarter allowed Great Britain’s Caden, Michael and Henry to seal the bronze medal.

Despite the defeat, Pakistan’s overall performance drew praise from officials and fans alike. PHF President Mir Tariq Hussain Bugti and Secretary Olympian Rana Mujahid Ali praised the team’s fighting spirit and discipline, calling the campaign “a step forward for the junior set-up”.

Individual talent and recognition

Pakistan’s campaign was highlighted by two major individual achievements: Captain Hanan Shahid was named Player of the Tournament, a recognition of his leadership, fitness and consistent scoring.

Young drag flicker, Mohammad Sufian Khan won the top scorer award, reaffirming Pakistan’s long-standing tradition of producing exceptional penalty-shooting specialists.

Their performances are bright signs for the future of the senior team, especially as Pakistan heads towards the next Junior World Cup and other major international events.

Strengths, weaknesses and the road ahead

Pakistan’s greatest strength lies in its attacking prowess. With 16 goals in six matches – including fixtures against highly ranked teams such as India and Australia – the forward line showed creativity and aggression. The penalty corner conversion rate was among the best in the tournament thanks to Sufyan Khan.

However, defensive fragility and inconsistent game management hampered Pakistan’s progress. The team conceded 16 goals – the same number they scored – mainly in transition, highlighting the urgent need for tactical discipline.

Another challenge is mental flexibility. As seen against New Zealand and Great Britain, Pakistan often struggled to close out matches after taking the lead. Improving decision-making under pressure and strengthening defensive structures in the final circles will be crucial.

On the positive side, Pakistan’s draws against India (World Junior Rank No. 2) and Australia (Rank No. 8) indicated the team’s ability to challenge top-ranked sides.

If the Pakistan Hockey Federation continues to invest in coaching, physical conditioning, and exhibition tours, this young squad could very well develop into a world-class unit.