Pakistan’s junior hockey side began its campaign at the Sultan of Johor Cup 2026 on a positive note, defeating China 8-3 in an entertaining opening encounter. The team delivered a strong attacking performance finding the net eight times to claim an important early victory in the tournament.
The match featured goals from several Pakistani players with the team gradually building its advantage through consistent pressure on China’s defence.
Saifullah put Pakistan ahead in the 13th minute giving the side an early boost. Farooq Muhammad increased the lead in the 30th minute helping Pakistan establish greater control before the contest moved into its later stages.
Pakistan stepped up its attacking efforts after the break. Rana Waleed scored in the 37th minute and Hamza Fayyaz followed just two minutes later. Mustafa Ghulam then added another goal in the 43rd minute, before Usman Muhammad scored shortly afterwards to extend the team’s commanding lead.
Haider Asim emerged as one of the standout performers, scoring twice late in the match. His goals in the 55th and 57th minutes completed Pakistan’s eight-goal tally and put the result beyond doubt.
China managed three goals during the contest. Liang Haolin scored twice, while Wang Yubo contributed the team’s remaining goal. However, China’s efforts were not enough to overcome Pakistan’s sustained attacking threat.
Following the victory, Pakistan Hockey Federation President Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani congratulated the players, coaching staff and team officials. He praised the squad’s determination, collective effort and unity, describing the result as an encouraging sign for the future of the country’s hockey programme.
Wani also expressed hope that the junior players would carry their confidence into their upcoming fixtures and maintain their strong start throughout the competition.
The convincing result gives Pakistan an encouraging foundation for the remainder of the Sultan of Johor Cup campaign. The team will now look to build on its opening performance as it continues its pursuit of success in the international junior hockey tournament.
