Sultan of Johor Cup: Pakistan, India Share Honors in 3-3 Thriller

By Hammad Aziz

Johor Bahru (Malaysia): Pakistan and India’s junior hockey teams played out a pulsating 3-3 draw in their Sultan of Johor Cup clash on Monday, delivering a contest full of intensity and drama that lived up to the rivalry’s reputation.

Pakistan took an early lead in the fourth minute, when captain Hanan Shahid confidently converted a penalty stroke. The opening quarter ended 1-0 in Pakistan’s favour, while both teams struggled to find the net in a goalless second quarter.

The third quarter saw Pakistan double their advantage through Sufyan Khan, who slotted home from a penalty corner to make it 2-0. However, India hit back soon after as Handal Arjit Singh converted a penalty stroke to narrow the deficit to 2-1.

The final quarter produced end-to-end action. India first drew level and then surged ahead through Manmeet Singh’s goal in the 52nd minute, turning the game on its head. But Pakistan responded swiftly, with Sufyan Khan netting his second goal just three minutes later to ensure the spoils were shared.

Both sides created late chances, but neither could find a winner as the fiercely contested match ended all square.

Pakistan will face New Zealand in their next group-stage fixture on Tuesday.