Sufyan’s hat-trick helps Pakistan thrash Malaysia

LAHORE/KARACHI: Pakistan’s junior hockey team launched their 13th Sultan of Johor Cup 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion, thrashing hosts Malaysia 7–2 in the tournament opener held in Johor. The victory was spearheaded by penalty corner specialist Muhammad Sufyan Khan, who delivered a scintillating hat-trick and was deservedly named Man of the Match.

Sufyan wasted no time asserting his dominance, converting a penalty corner in the 3rd minute to open Pakistan’s account. He struck again in the 21st minute, once more from a set-piece, giving Pakistan a firm grip on the match. His third goal came in the 34th minute, completing a memorable hat-trick and reaffirming his reputation as one of the most lethal drag-flickers in junior hockey.

Captain Abdul Hannan Shahid added to the tally with a well-taken field goal in the 30th minute, followed by Nadeem Khan, who netted twice—once in the 32nd minute and again in the 44th. The final flourish came from Hamza Fayyaz, who scored in the 52nd minute, capping off a dominant attacking display.

Malaysia managed two consolation goals through Ammar and Azeemuddin, but the hosts were largely outplayed in all departments. Pakistan’s structured build-up, clinical finishing, and penalty corner efficiency proved too much for the Malaysian defence.

Following the win, Pakistan Hockey Federation President Mir Tariq Hussain Bugti and Secretary General Olympian

Rana Mujahid Ali Khan extended their congratulations to the junior squad, praising their composure and execution in the opening fixture.

Head coach of Pakistan Kamran Ashraf, when contacted, that the win in the opening match against the host country Malaysia will give a lot of confidence.

He said that team played well and put the rival team under pressure through attacking game.

He added that coming matches will be tougher and players will remain alert.