Asian Champions Trophy: Pakistan’s opening match against Malaysia ends in tie

Pakistan’s opening match against Malaysia in the Asian Champions Trophy ended in a draw, with both teams scoring two goals each at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia, China.

The match started with the Green Shirts dictating the proceedings as they took the lead in the second quarter, thanks to a goal by Sufyan Khan.

In the third quarter, Nadeem Ahmed extended their lead, before Malaysia made a comeback with a goal from the penalty corner.

Pakistan were heading towards victory with a 2-1 lead until Aiman Rozemi helped Malaysia level the game in the dying minutes of the game.

Pakistan must be disappointed with the final result, particularly after the 2-0 lead. Pakistan's Ammad Butt received the Player of the Match award, a memento and a $200 cheque.

Pakistan's Asian Champions Trophy Itinerary

vs South Korea - September 9

vs Japan - September 11

vs China - September 12

vs India - September 14

The Asian Champions Trophy’s eighth edition kicked off on Sunday (today) in China. Six teams will contest against each other in a round-robin format before four teams will qualify for the semifinals, which are slated for September 16. Whereas, the third-place playoff match and the final will take place on September 17.

Pakistan have won the tournament in 2012 and 2013, while India won in 2011, 2016 and 2023. Meanwhile, the 2018 edition saw Pakistan and India jointly sharing the trophy as the final was forfeited due to persistent rain.