Pakistan qualify for Hockey World Cup after eight years

Pakistan have qualified for the Hockey World Cup after eight years.

In the semi-final of the Hockey World Cup Qualifiers currently being held in Egypt, Pakistan defeated Japan 4–3 in a thrilling contest to secure a place in the final.

Goalkeeper Ali Raza played a decisive role by saving a penalty stroke, ensuring Pakistan’s victory.

Japan were awarded a penalty stroke four minutes before the end of the match, but Ali Raza denied the attempt, helping Pakistan clinch a crucial win. For Pakistan, Sufyan Khan, Abu Muhammad, Muhammad Imad and Afraz scored the goals.

With this semi-final victory in the qualifiers, Pakistan have secured qualification for the Hockey World Cup after an eight-year gap.

The national team will now return to the World Cup for the first time since 2018, having failed to qualify for the previous edition.

The Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be held from 14 to 30 August in Belgium and the Netherlands.