Abhishek’s Last-Minute Winner Sends India Into Asian Games Hockey Final After 4-3 Thriller Against Pakistan

Kakamigahara (Japan): Defending champions India stormed into the final of the Asian Games men’s hockey tournament after defeating arch-rivals Pakistan 4-3 in a thrilling semifinal here on Thursday. Abhishek Nain was the star of the match, scoring the decisive goal in the dying moments after the two teams were locked 3-3 until the final minute.

Haryana’s Abhishek Nain had scored the opening goal for India against Japan on September 26 and repeated the feat in the following match against Bangladesh. On Thursday, he produced his biggest moment yet, scoring the winning goal with just 45 seconds remaining in the semifinal against Pakistan. Had the match gone into a shootout, India could have faced a difficult situation.

Before Abhishek’s winner, India’s first three goals were shared between captain Harmanpreet Singh and Sukhjeet Singh. Harmanpreet converted penalty corners in the fifth and 13th minutes, while Sukhjeet scored India’s third goal from a field play in the 23rd minute.

Pakistan fought back strongly, with Abu Mahmood, Hannan Shahid and Waheed Rana scoring in the 30th, 45th and 49th minutes respectively. Waheed Rana’s goal in the 49th minute brought Pakistan level at 3-3. With India’s defence under pressure, the real test began for the Indian attackers.

With the score tied 3-3 and preparations for a shootout underway, Abhishek Nain produced the decisive moment in the final minute. He dispossessed Pakistan defender Sufyan and took control of the ball before beating goalkeeper Ali Raza in a flash to score India’s fourth and winning goal.

Also Read:Pakistan Beware… India Are Through To The Final

India’s victory secured a place in the Asian Games final. South Korea and Malaysia were due to contest the second semifinal, and both teams were considered strong opponents. Hockey fans were therefore anticipating a challenging final for India against whichever side emerged victorious from the other semifinal. Ultimately, Malaysia defeated Korea by 2-1 in the semi final and reached the final which will be played against India.