Pakistan secured a place in the semi-finals of the FIH Hockey Nations Cup in Kuala Lumpur after finishing second in their pool on goal average, despite collecting only four points from their group-stage matches.

The Green Shirts, who had earlier drawn 3-3 with hosts Malaysia and defeated Japan 3-2, benefitted from Malaysia’s narrow 2-1 win over Japan on Tuesday. The result was insufficient for the home side to overtake Pakistan in the standings, as they required a win by at least two goals to advance.

With the result, Pakistan ended the group stage second in their pool behind France and ahead of Malaysia, who also had four points but an inferior goal difference. The national side will now face France in the semi-finals on Friday, June 21.

Pakistan’s path to the semis was anything but straightforward. In their opening match, they drew 3-3 against Malaysia after conceding a late equaliser. The match showcased attacking intent from both sides but also highlighted defensive vulnerabilities.

In their second outing, Pakistan edged past Japan 3-2 in a high-tempo contest at the National Stadium on Monday. Ghazanfar Ali gave Pakistan an early lead in the first quarter, but Japan responded quickly with goals from Kazumasa Matsumoto and Koji Yamasaki to go ahead 2-1.

Vice-captain Waheed Ashraf Rana brought Pakistan level in the third quarter before Imad Butt’s side secured the win through disciplined defence in the final stages.

The team will next face New Zealand on Wednesday, June 18 at 3pm PKT in their final pool match, although the outcome will not affect Pakistan’s semi-final qualification.

The FIH Hockey Nations Cup, running from June 15 to 21, serves as a qualifying pathway for the elite FIH Hockey Pro League. The tournament features eight teams, including hosts Malaysia, France, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, South Africa, and Wales.

Earlier this month, the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) announced a 20-member national squad for the event, with Imad Butt named captain and Waheed Ashraf Rana appointed vice-captain.