Ipoh, Malaysia (Web Desk/Agencies): Japan defeated Pakistan in penalty shootout by 4-1 to clinch Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup on Saturday after the game between the two sides ended in a draw in normal time.
Japan executed a remarkable comeback to level the score at 2-2 after Pakistan surged ahead with two goals in the third quarter. Kazumasa Matsumoto delivered the equalizing goal in the 47th minute.
During the third quarter, Pakistan displayed resilience, overturning the deficit as Ajaz Ahmed found the net in the 34th minute, followed by Abdul Rehman's goal in the 37th minute.
Earlier in the match, Seren Tanaka provided an early lead for Japan with a field goal in the 12th minute.
It is pertinent to mention that the Pakistan hockey team played in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2024 final after a gap of 13 years.
With a total of 11 points from five matches, Pakistan successfully secured its place in the final.
Pakistan had clinched the third position in the previous edition of the event.
This prestigious event, featuring six teams including hosts Malaysia, Pakistan, Korea, Japan, New Zealand, and Canada, garnered immense attention from hockey enthusiasts from across the world.