Asian Games 2018 – Hockey: Japan in Final; Pak & India To Fight For Bronze
JAKARTA: In second upset Japan beat Pakistan 1-0 and will play Malaysia for the Gold, who had also caused another major upset by defeating India 7-6.
This would be one of the rear Asian Games final which would be without one of the two Asian Hockey giants.
Japan achieved their biggest success in the Asian Games 2018 hockey, defeating Pakistan by a solitary goal in the semifinal to reach the final for the first time ever. Now, they meet Malaysia in what would be the first final of the Asian Games not featuring either Pakistan or India.
Asian Games 2018 – Hockey: Pakistan Vs Japan Semi-Final Preview
Earlier Malaysia went past India in a nerve wrecking shoot out after twice coming from behind in the regulation time which ended 2-2.
So there will be a new gold medalist in the Asian Games 2018 men’s hockey competition. Pakistan (8), Korea (4) and India (3) had shared the previous 15 golds.
Pakistan, who had convincing wins in all the five pool matches, had the first opportunity but Ali Shan’s attempt went out in the seventh minute.
Then onward, Japan had more of the play in the first half. They had two open play chances as well as two penalty corners. Off the second PC, Shota Yamada’s strong flat push went through Imran Butt’s pads.
Asian Games 2018 – Hockey: Pakistan defeats Bangladesh 5-0; Enters Semi-finals
Half time Pakistan:0 Japan:1
Pakistan appeared a completely transformed side in the third period. Employing their traditional short passing game, they repeatedly entered the opponent’s circle from both the sides but lacked the finishing. The two penalty corners coming their way were also wasted. Japan hardly entered Pakistani circle during these 15 minutes.
The green shirts had the third PC in the first minute of the fourth period but again failed to make it count. However, Japanese manged to weather the storm and regained composure.
The last quarter was evenly played. Chances came to both the sides but there wasn’t any dangerous attempt.
The hooter sounded for the final time and the Japanese erupted into joyous celebration.
SCORER: Shota Yamada (18 Minutes)
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