India Survives Pakistan Test; Advances to Asia Cup Semis

Dramatic Win Sends India to Final Four

India qualified for the Asia Cup semi-finals after a dramatic 2-1 victory over arch-rival Pakistan in a thrilling group encounter on Sunday. The match was filled with tense moments, passionate play, and ultimately, a hard-fought win for India.

Key Moments: India vs. Pakistan

The match began with both teams playing cautiously, testing each other's defenses. India drew first blood in the 15th minute when Mandeep Singh scored a goal from a penalty corner. Pakistan responded quickly, with Ali Shan scoring an equalizer in the 28th minute. The first half ended with the teams level at 1-1.

The second half continued in a similar vein, with both teams creating chances but failing to find the winning goal. As the match entered the final minutes, India won a penalty corner and Harmanpreet Singh stepped up to take the shot. He fired a powerful shot into the bottom corner to give India the lead.

Pakistan pushed for an equalizer in the remaining minutes, but India's defense held strong to secure the victory. The win sends India through to the semi-finals, where they will face either Japan or Afghanistan.

India's Path to the Semis

India's victory over Pakistan was their second in the group stage. They had previously defeated Malaysia 4-0. India finished top of their group, ahead of Pakistan, Japan, and Malaysia.

Pakistan, meanwhile, finished second in the group and will now face Hong Kong in the quarter-finals. The winner of that match will face India in the semi-finals.

What's Next for India?

India will now face either Japan or Afghanistan in the semi-finals of the Asia Cup. Japan and Afghanistan will face off in the other semi-final.

The Asia Cup is a major international field hockey tournament held every four years. India has won the tournament a record 7 times and is the defending champion.