Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2024: Pakistan Lose To Japan In Penalty Shoot-Outs After 13-Year Hiatus In Final

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Ipoh, May 13: In an exhilarating finale to the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2024, Japan emerged as champions after a gripping penalty shoot-out, defeating Pakistan with a score of 4-1 here on Sunday (May 12).

The showdown between Pakistan and Japan, both maintaining unbeaten records in the tournament, ended in a 2-2 draw at full-time, necessitating a shoot-out to determine the winner. The match was a rollercoaster from start to finish, with both teams displaying exceptional skill and determination.

The game kicked off with Japan taking an early lead thanks to Seren Tanaka's field goal in the 12th minute. This initial advantage was maintained through the first half, despite numerous attempts by Pakistan to level the score.

The tide turned in the third quarter when Ajaz Ahmed and Abdul Rahman scored for Pakistan, flipping the script and putting Pakistan ahead. However, Japan's Kazumasa Matsumoto equalised early in the final quarter, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish.

Despite efforts from both sides, the game proceeded to a penalty shoot-out, where Japan's flawless execution secured their victory. This victory is significant for Japan, showcasing their prowess and strategic gameplay.

For Pakistan, this match marked their return to the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final after a 13-year hiatus, a comeback highlighted by their commendable performance throughout the tournament. They showcased their strength by defeating teams like Malaysia, South Korea, and Canada, and drawing against New Zealand in the group stages.

An interesting twist in this year's tournament was the absence of five-time champions India from the final. This was a result of Hockey India's strategic decision to focus on the FIH Pro League 2023-24's European Leg, given the higher-ranked teams participating there, which are seen as crucial preparation for the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Expectations for an electrifying India versus Pakistan final were high among fans, but Hockey India's prioritisation of the FIH Pro League 2023-24's European Leg played a significant role in India's non-participation in the tournament. Despite recent India-Pakistan matches being rather one-sided affairs.

This choice was influenced by the lack of higher-ranked nations in the Azlan Shah Cup lineup. The participating teams, including New Zealand, hosts Malaysia, South Korea, Canada, Japan, and Pakistan, do not rank above India or feature in the top 10 of the FIH Rankings, except for World No. 10 New Zealand.

In contrast, the European Leg of the FIH Pro League presents India with the chance to compete against top-ranking teams like Belgium (World No. 2), Germany (World No. 4), and Great Britain (World No. 5), which are crucial for their preparations for the Paris Olympics.