Pakistan edge Malaysia 5-4 in Azlan Shah Cup thriller

KARACHI: A stunning hat-trick from Sufyan Khan, and a sensational last-minute goal by Abu Mahmood helped Pakistan snatch victory from the jaws of defeat against Malaysia by 5-4 in a high-scoring Sultan Azlan Shah Cup encounter in Ipoh (Malaysia) on Saturday.

In the last stages of their opening game, Pakistan, despite a two-goal deficit managed to equalize, while a last-minute winner by Abu Mahmood via a penalty corner sealed the match.

The match began with Pakistan earning a PC in the ninth minute which was converted by Sufyan. However, Malaysia leveled the scores with Abu Kamal Arzai scoring a brilliant goal. The first quarter ended 1-1.

But, at the start of the second quarter, Malaysia took the lead as Arzai scored for the home team once again. The third quarter was no different as well, as Arzai completed his hat-trick and put Malaysia in the driving seat.

Malaysia continued to look dominant, as equalizing the game looked difficult for Pakistan, but they managed to hold their nerves and kept making the circle penetrations to score two goals in quick sessions. Sufyan and Zikriya Hayat scored in the 50th and 53rd minute respectively.

Malaysia once again took the lead in the 56th minute with Marhan Jalil scoring for them and with just four minutes left for the final hooter, the topsy-turvy encounter looked out of Pakistan’s grasp.

But, that was not the case as some consistent and attacking display helped Pakistan level after Sufyan once again found the back of the net in the 59th minute.

Seconds after Sufyan’s goal, Pakistan earned a penalty corner which was converted by Abu Mahmood as Pakistan emerged victorious after a nail-biter. Pakistan’s next match is now against Korea on Sunday at the same venue.