WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS: MALAYSIA FALL TO PAKISTAN IN SECOND GROUP B CLASH

KUALA LUMPUR, March 2 (Bernama) -- The national men’s hockey squad missed the chance to strengthen their position at the top of Group B after going down 3-5 to Pakistan in their second match of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in Ismailia, Egypt today.

The defeat saw Sarjit Singh’s men slip to second place in the group, overtaken by Pakistan who now have a maximum six points from two matches.

Malaysia began the match with high intensity, dominating play from the opening minute and were rewarded when Muhajir Abdu Rauf struck a field goal in the 12th minute.

Two minutes later, Malaysia extended their lead when penalty corner specialist Mohamad Akhimullah Anuar Esook converted to put the country comfortably ahead at 2-0.

Stung by the early setback, Pakistan, coached by Ahmed Butt, fought back through a field goal by Waheed Ashraf Rana in the 14th minute before Zikriya Hayat levelled the score at 2-2 just two minutes later.

In the third quarter, Mohd Fitri Saari reignited Malaysia’s hopes by calmly converting a penalty stroke in the 40th minute to restore a 3-2 lead.

However, the advantage did not last long as Pakistan struck three times through Nadeem Ahmad (45’), Sufyan Khan (49’) and a final goal by Ammad Muhammad (56’).

Malaysia will complete their group stage campaign with a must-win clash against China on Wednesday.

Under the competition format, the top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals, while the four best teams overall will contest the final.

The top three teams overall from this qualifying campaign will secure automatic berths at the 2026 World Cup.

-- BERNAMA