ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and India, both defending champions at the Asian Champions Trophy, were beaten in the semifinals in Dhaka on Tuesday.
Pakistan’s defeat marks the first time since the inception of the tournament in 2011 that their side has failed to qualify for the final.
The Men's Asian Champions Trophy is an event held annually by the Asian Hockey Federation. It features Asia's top six field hockey teams competing in a round robin format. Pakistan and India were the most successful teams in the Men's Asian Hockey Champions Trophy thrice.
“Korea edged out Pakistan 6-5 following a tense and exciting clash while Japan overpowered India 5-3 after totally dominating the 50 minutes of play where they were leading 5-1,” the News reported.
“It is disappointing for us because we scored more field goals,” Pakistan captain Umar Bhutta said after the match, referring to his side’s four field goals while the South Koreans only got one from open play. “We played a good match but the two goals we conceded from penalty corners hurt us.”
It was only Japan’s second win against India in 19 matches.
