In a mega upset, China stunned Pakistan 2-0 (1-1) in the shootout to enter the final of the Asian Champions Trophy at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir, China. This will be the first time in the history of the tournament that the Chinese national team has made it to the title round, while the second-highest number of title winners, Pakistan, will play for the bronze medal against the loser of the second semifinal between India and Korea.
The first semifinal of the day truly lived up to its billing, with China posing a mega threat to Pakistan’s hopes of making the final right from the start. They were gritty in their pursuit, dominated ball possession, and created early chances. China was buoyed by the unprecedented support from the home crowd, who turned up in large numbers as it was a government holiday on Monday for the Mooncake Festival, which marks the post-autumn harvest celebrations across China.
After a 0-0 stalemate in the opening quarter, China scored in the 18th minute through Yuanlin Lu’s powerful drag flick to convert from the PC. The 1-0 lead for China put Pakistan on the backfoot. China also came up with brilliant defending in the second quarter to stop Pakistan from scoring a PC. They had created as many as five PCs this quarter but could not breach the Chinese defense.
Chinese goalkeeper Caiyu Wang was outstanding in his efforts to keep a clean slate in the shootout, while Benhai Chen and Chanliang Lin scored for China. Earlier in the match, Yuanlin Lu had given China an early 1-0 lead in the 18th minute. Wang’s heroics in the shootout were crucial in securing the historic win for China.
China’s Head Coach Jin Seung Yoo, a former player for Korea, ensured his team was not going to be crushed by Pakistan as they put up an inspired show. They punctured Pakistan’s attack and kept the pressure on through tactful defending.
Though Pakistan mustered a goal in the 37th minute through Ahmed Nadeem, China ensured they didn’t concede another goal. They played a disciplined game, and tackled Pakistani attackers with strong man-to-man marking to ensure they didn’t create scoring opportunities.
China’s journey to the final has been remarkable. They have shown consistent improvement and resilience throughout the tournament. Their victory against Pakistan is a testament to their hard work and strategic planning. The Chinese team will now prepare to face their final opponent with confidence and determination.
China’s historic victory over Pakistan to reach their maiden final at the Asian Champions Trophy is a significant milestone for the team. The blend of experienced players and young talent, combined with the support of the home crowd, has set the stage for a thrilling final. As China prepares for the title clash, fans can expect an exciting and competitive match.
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