Pakistan has booked a much-anticipated semi-final clash with India in the ongoing Men’s U18 Hockey Asia Cup 2026 after both teams successfully advanced from their respective groups.
India secured their place in the last four with a dominant 13-1 victory over Chinese Taipei in their final group-stage fixture at the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Hockey Stadium. Despite the convincing win, India finished second in Pool A, as Japan maintained a perfect record by winning all four of their matches to top the standings.
Meanwhile, Pakistan emerged as the leaders of Pool B with six points. Although Pakistan and Malaysia finished level on points, the Green Shirts secured first place due to a superior goal difference. As a result, Pakistan will now meet India, the second-placed team from Pool A, in a highly anticipated semi-final scheduled for June 5.
Pakistan confirmed their position at the top of the group after defeating Bangladesh 5-2 in their final pool match. The Green Shirts made an impressive start when Abdullah Awan found the net in the second minute to hand Pakistan an early advantage. Bangladesh responded before the end of the opening quarter through Islam Munna, who scored the equalizer to make it 1-1.
Pakistan controlled much of the play during the second quarter and earned several penalty corners. However, they were unable to convert their opportunities, and the first half ended level.
The third quarter proved decisive as Pakistan regained the lead through Adeel in the 32nd minute. Bangladesh quickly fought back, with Islam Munna scoring his second goal of the match just three minutes later. Pakistan then shifted momentum in their favor with two rapid strikes. Haider Asam successfully converted a penalty corner before Abdullah Awan added his second goal of the game to make it 4-2.
Pakistan continued their dominance in the final quarter, with Najeeb Muhammad Yahya scoring in the 59th minute to complete a convincing 5-2 victory.
The win ensured Pakistan finished first in Pool B and set up an exciting Hockey Asia Cup semi-final encounter against arch-rivals India, one of the tournament’s most anticipated matches.
