Bangladesh Under-18 hockey team put up a spirited fight before ultimately falling 6-3 to a dominant Pakistan side in a high-energy Group A encounter at the Dazhou National Hockey Training Centre on Tuesday. Pakistan continued their impressive run in the U-18 Hockey Asia Cup, securing their third consecutive victory.
The match began with an exhilarating first half, where Bangladesh showcased remarkable resilience and attacking intent. Both teams engaged in aggressive play, trading blows and demonstrating their determination. The Tigers held their ground admirably, ensuring the first half concluded with the scores level at a thrilling 3-3, a testament to their fighting spirit against a formidable opponent.
However, the tide turned decisively in the latter half of the game. The final two quarters saw Pakistan assert their dominance, launching a series of relentless attacks. They managed to score three additional goals, while Bangladesh, despite their earlier efforts, were unable to find the net again. The score remained 6-3 in Pakistan's favour until the final whistle, reflecting Pakistan's superior depth and finishing power in the latter stages.
For Pakistan, Abdullah Awan and Hanzala Ali were instrumental, each netting two goals. Atif Ali and Asim contributed one goal apiece to complete their tally.
With this victory, Pakistan now leads Group A with a perfect record of nine points from three matches. They have been in formidable form throughout the tournament, boasting an impressive goal difference, having scored a total of 23 goals while conceding only three so far. Earlier in the competition, Pakistan delivered commanding performances, crushing Hong Kong 8-0 and outclassing Sri Lanka with another 9-0 triumph.
The U18 Hockey Asia Cup features teams from 11 nations, including China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Japan, Chinese Taipei, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, and Kazakhstan. Pakistan is placed in Pool A alongside China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Hong Kong, while Pool B comprises Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Chinese Taipei.
