India vs Pakistan in the Hero Asia Cup ends in a draw

In the Hero Asia Men’s Cup opener, the blockbuster match between India and Pakistan ends in a 1-1 draw.

Debutant Selvam Karthi scored inside the first 8 minutes to put India 1-0 up. But, India had to settle for a draw as Pakistan scored in the dying moments.

Also read: https://www.sportstrumpet.com/world-hockey-needs-india-and-pakistan-to-lead-in-the-sport-says-pakistan-coach-siegfried/

First Half

India started the match on the front foot but, Pakistan earned the first penalty corner of the match in the 3rd minute itself.

It was a wasted opportunity as Butt failed to stop the injection itself. But, India started asserting dominance and got back to back penalty corners.

Debutant Selvam Karthi scored from the penalty corner, to put India 1-0 up.

Pakistan were looking for an equaliser without success so far. Another good move into the India D, but no shot on goal.

At the end of the first quarter, the score read 1-0, India.

Pakistan cranked up the pressure in the second quarter, forcing a big save from Suraj. Minutes later, Arfaaz had the goal at his mercy but lost composure and shot wide. A golden opportunity for Pakistan went begging.

Both teams created chance but, no goals were scored in the second quarter. India went into halftime, leading by a goal to nil, thanks to Selvam Karthi’s early goal.

Second Half

Arfaz was the culprit again as he shot the rebound over the crossbar. Another chance of an equalizer went begging for Pakistan. Ijaz Ahmed had a chance again but from the front of the goal, he shot wide.

India reviewed the decision taken by the referee and earned a penalty corner. Pakistan keeper Akmal makes a good save to deny Nilam Sanjeeb a goal from the PC.

India could score just 1 off the 6 PC they had gotten till then.

In the fourth quarter, Pakistan were trying their best. In the 14th minute of the Quarter, Pakistan went on to score from a penalty corner.

The match ended up with a 1-1 draw.

India next play against Japan on 24th May, at 18:30, whereas Pakistan play against hosts Indonesia on 24th May at 16:15.