Pakistan’s men’s hockey team booked their place in the final of the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup 2024-25 with a dramatic 3-2 shootout victory over France, after a gripping 3-3 draw in regular time at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
The match saw both sides display high-tempo hockey and nerves of steel. France took early control, scoring twice in the first quarter, while Pakistan responded with a goal of their own before the break. France extended their lead in the second quarter, but Pakistan came roaring back in the third, scoring twice in quick succession to level the score 3-3.
Pakistan vs France Semi-Final Match Highlights
```
The fourth quarter remained goalless, pushing the semi-final into a decisive shootout.
Shootout drama:
- France: 2 successful out of 5 attempts
- Pakistan: 3 successful out of 4 attempts
Pakistan held their nerves better under pressure, clinching a 3-2 win in the shootout and securing a place in the final.
Pakistan will now face the winner of the second semi-final between New Zealand and Korea, which is scheduled later today. The final is set to be played on Saturday, where the trophy — and a potential return to the FIH Pro League — will be on the line.
In an extraordinary display of determination, Pakistan recovered from a 2-0 deficit to defeat France in the shootout, earning their position in the FIH Nations Cup 2025 Final.🏑🇵🇰 #NationsCup #Pakistan #Hockey #France pic.twitter.com/lGyx0CMm76
— CricFollow (@CricFollow56) June 20, 2025
The victory marks a huge milestone for the Green Shirts, who are making a strong statement on the international stage after years of rebuilding.
The Green Shirts, who finished second in Pool B, came into the semi-final as underdogs against group-toppers France. However, Pakistan displayed grit and composure throughout the match.
Read more: Pakistan qualifies for FIH Nations Cup semi-finals 2025
Their journey to the semi-final included a crucial win over Japan (3-2), a thrilling 3-3 draw against hosts Malaysia, and a narrow 4-3 loss to New Zealand.
France, who had topped Pool A, were favorites on paper, but Pakistan’s youthful energy and determination proved too strong in the end.
In the second semi-final later today, New Zealand will face Korea at 6:00 PM (Pakistan Time), with the winner set to meet Pakistan in the final on Saturday.
The semis are here! #FIHNationsCup
— International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) June 20, 2025
📱Avail the new discounted rates on https://t.co/71D0pOq2OG. #Hockey
With this victory, Pakistan not only moves a step closer to lifting the Nations Cup but also strengthens its case for re-entry into top-tier international hockey through the FIH Pro League.
Pakistan vs Japan Match Highlights
Finalists will clash on Saturday – Pakistan now just one win away from a historic comeback on the global stage.
Congratulates pour in
Following Pakistan’s thrilling victory over France in the semi-final of the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup 2024-25, national leaders have extended heartfelt congratulations to the team for securing a spot in the final.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended heartfelt congratulations to the national hockey team on their remarkable victory against France in the semi-final of the FIH Nations Cup, calling it a proud moment for the entire nation.
“The national hockey team displayed exceptional performance throughout the tournament and has made the entire nation proud,” the Prime Minister said in a statement.
“The players and team management deserve full appreciation for their efforts and dedication. It is my prayer that the team raises the flag of victory in the final as well.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed hope that Pakistan will soon reclaim its lost glory in international hockey.
“The way the team played has won the hearts of the nation, and we look forward to continued success in the final,” he added.
Chairman Senate Yousaf Raza Gilani also congratulated the national hockey team on reaching the final, praising their performance in the semi-final clash.
“The team demonstrated great determination, skill, and teamwork. Their victory is a moment of joy for the entire nation,” Gilani said.
He expressed confidence that the same spirit and unity will lead to success in the final match as well. The national team’s win against France has sparked celebration and renewed hopes for a resurgence of hockey in Pakistan.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, praised the Green Shirts for their remarkable team performance.
"Pakistani players showed excellent teamwork to defeat France and book a place in the final," said Naqvi.
"The outstanding performance of the hockey players is commendable. I extend congratulations not only to the players but also to the entire management."
Naqvi added that all players performed exceptionally well on the field and expressed optimism for more victories:
"Pakistan is receiving good news across various fields, including sports. I hope the national hockey team returns home as tournament champions."
Federal Minister and President of the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), Abdul Aleem Khan, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Pakistan hockey team for reaching the final of the FIH Nations Cup. In his message, he said:
“Alhamdulillah! This is wonderful news for the entire nation and a moment of pride that enhances Pakistan's image on the global stage.”
He described the victory over France in the semi-final as a significant achievement and expressed hope that the team will carry this momentum forward into the final.
“God willing, the national hockey team will also emerge victorious in the final,” he added.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also congratulated the team on their semi-final triumph. She expressed great joy over the victory against France and lauded the efforts of captain Imad Butt, Rana Waheed Ashraf, and the rest of the squad.
"The team has made the nation proud with this win," she said. "We are all praying and hoping for another great performance in the final."
.jpg)
