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KAKAMIGAHARA: Pakistan and India are set to clash in the Men’s U18 Asia Cup 2026 semi-final on 5 June at the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Hockey Stadium.
India advanced to the semifinals after defeating Chinese Taipei 13-1 on Wednesday. With this victory, India finished second in Pool A behind Japan, which remain undefeated in four games.
Meanwhile, Pakistan topped Pool B with six points ahead of Malaysia on goal difference.
Earlier today, the Green Shirts secured a 5-2 win over Bangladesh at the same venue, thanks to Abdullah Awan’s brace.
Pakistan started the match strongly as Abdullah Awan scored in the second minute of the first quarter, giving Pakistan a 1-0 lead.
Bangladesh quickly responded with Islam Munna equalizing in the 11th minute, leaving the first quarter tied at 1-1.
In the second quarter, Pakistan dominated possession and earned three penalty corners but couldn’t convert any, ending the half without further goals.
Pakistan took the lead again in the third quarter when Adeel scored in the 32nd minute. Bangladesh quickly equalized with Islam Munna’s second goal in the 35th minute, making it 2-2.
The game then shifted in Pakistan’s favor as they scored two rapid goals. Haider Asam converted a penalty corner to make it 3-2, followed by Abdullah Awan’s second goal to make it 4-2 at the end of the third quarter.
In the final quarter, Najeeb Muhammad Yahya scored in the 59th minute to make it 5-2, securing a convincing win for Pakistan.
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