Harmanpreet Singh’s Double Leads India To 2-1 Win Against Pakistan In Asian Champions Trophy

Team India has finished the league stage of the ongoing Asian Champions Trophy with an unbeaten record as India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan by 2-1 at the Moqi Training Base in Hulunbuir, China. Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh, who completed the milestone of 200 goals in the previous game, scored two more goals on Saturday during the India vs Pakistan game.

Harmanpreet Singh double gives India 2-1 win over Pakistan in Asian Champions Trophy

It has to be noted that this was India’s fifth consecutive win in the six-team round-robin competition.  With this win, India continues to sit at the top of the points table of the league stage. On the other hand, Pakistan has suffered their first defeat of the ongoing tournament after having secured two wins and two draws before this game against India. Despite the defeat, Pakistan along with India have advanced to the semifinal stage of the ongoing tournament.

However, the thrilling clash between India and Pakistan also witnessed a heated exchange following a collision with Rana inside the Indian circle. Indian player Jarmanpreet Singh and captain Harmanpreet, both rushed quickly to give it back to Rana verbally, before the on-field umpires, Pakistan captain Ammad Butt and other players from both the squads intervened to control the situation.

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INDIA WINS!

Team India get another win under their belt in the tournament this time it is against Pakistan.

Captain Harmanpreet Singh scores 2 penalty corners to stamp his authority on the game.

India 🇮🇳 2 – 1 🇵🇰Pakistan#IndVsPak #MenInBlue #PrideOfIndia…

— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) September 14, 2024

Pakistan’s Defensive Struggles

Pakistan’s defense struggled to contain India’s relentless attacking line, with their shaky positioning being exploited at every opportunity. Although Nadeem and Ajaz Ahmad made efforts to spark Pakistan’s attack, they were hampered by a lack of support. The situation worsened when Abubakar Mahmood was stretchered off with a serious knee injury.

In the second half, Pakistan began to display more attacking intent, creating several chances. However, India’s goalkeeper Krishan Kumar Pathak was in exceptional form, making several crucial saves. His standout moment came late in the third quarter when he executed a remarkable double-save from a Pakistan penalty corner, preserving India’s lead.

Tensions Flared During IND vs PAK Asian Champions Trophy Match

Tensions escalated in the final quarter when Waheed Ashraf Rana’s rough challenge on Sukhjeet Singh led to a heated exchange between Harmanpreet and Rana. Rana received a yellow card and was suspended for 10 minutes. India also faced disciplinary issues, with Manpreet Singh receiving a 5-minute suspension in the dying moments of the final quarter.

Despite Pakistan’s late surge, India’s defense remained resolute, ensuring their place in the semi-finals with an unbeaten record. Although India had previously defeated Pakistan 10-2, this match proved to be far more competitive and intense.

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