Asian Games 2026: Pakistan Defeats Korea 5-3 to Secure Hockey Bronze Medal

DNA KAWASAKI, JAPAN — Pakistan's men's hockey team clinched the bronze medal at the Asian Games with a thrilling 5-3 victory over Korea at the Kawasaki Juko Stadium. In a high-scoring encounter, Pakistan mounted an impressive second-half surge, scoring three goals in the fourth quarter to break a 2-2 tie and secure a spot on the podium.Match HighlightsEarly Advantage Korea: Korea took an early lead in the first quarter when Lee Gangsan scored in the 12th minute (11:53).Pakistan Strikes Back: Pakistan responded before the break, equalizing through Abdul Rehman in the 30th minute (29:47) to level the score 1-1 at half-time.Tight Third Quarter: Korea surged ahead again with a goal from Park Cheoleon (35:26), but Pakistan quickly countered with Ghazanfar Ali finding the back of the net in the 45th minute (44:07) to make it 2-2.Fourth Quarter Dominance: Waheed Ashraf Rana delivered a decisive performance in the final period, scoring twice in quick succession (51:52 and 53:23) to propel Pakistan into a 4-2 lead. Hannan Shahid added a late seal with a goal in the 59th minute (58:32) to secure the 5-3 victory.