Adil Najam
Pakistan hockey team made it to the finals of the Asian Games after a lapse of 20 years – the last time they did so was also in China in 1990 – with goalkeeper Salman Akbar the hero of the day for saving the last South Korean strike in the semi-finals shootout.
Pakistan will ow play Malaysia in the Finals.
This was a major upset for the South Koreans who won the Asian gold in both the last two games. It was also a meaningful victory for Pakistan because for many observers the ‘fall’ of Pakistan hockey had become visible at around the same time that the rise of the South Koreans had become evident – at the Seoul Asian Games on 1986, where favorites Pakistan had lost and underdogs South Korea had emerged triumphant. Pakistan had then regained the title in the 1990 Beijing Olympics – twenty years ago.
Pakistan will now face Malaysia in the Finals – another upset since India was considered the favorites but lost to Malaysia in their semi-finals game.
When the final is being played today?
Can any body please tell me?
Ah eventually a long awaited moment of some respect is here for Pakistan Hockey team. The happiness tears of Pakistani team at the end of contest, shows how desperate to win these guys are.
Best of Luck, team Pakistan! We always loved you; please win some respect for us.
Very cool!
I watched the last few minutes of penalty corners and exciting sudden death (winning) on Dunya TV. Although I was’nt too comfortable watching bunch of guys running with sticks without a helmet but hey its a country’s national game.
What was disappointing was the lack of emotions and enthusiasm of that good looking Indian (just kidding)
commentator. I would have slapped him few times to wake him up but I will be good. Probably low paid and overly worked.
Conniving politicians (party kissers) and thieves have stolen the public smile and love for the country. Ignorant mullahs are no less.
Aaj TV is also good :-)
Good news. And Good luck to the team.
This is Fantastic ! Great come back Pakistani Hockey Team !
Keep it up & Bring the cup :)