New Zealand Beat Pakistan
New Zealand Beat Pakistan: KUALA LUMPUR – Defending champions New Zealand delivered a dominant performance to thrash Pakistan 6-2 in the FIH Nations Cup final on Saturday, securing their place in the prestigious FIH Pro League for another year. The Black Sticks extinguished Pakistan’s hopes of Pro League qualification for the second consecutive year, this time in emphatic fashion.
Dominant New Zealand Outclass Pakistan in One-Sided Final
A year after edging past Pakistan in a tense 4-3 semi-final victory, New Zealand left no room for doubt this time, storming to a 5-0 lead by halftime in a ruthless display of attacking hockey.
Pakistan, who had fought hard in their earlier 4-3 pool-stage loss to the Kiwis, were completely outplayed in the final. New Zealand’s Scott Cosslett opened the scoring and later added another, while the rest of the team overwhelmed Pakistan’s defense with relentless pressure.
Despite a brief resurgence in the third quarter with a goal from Zikriya Hayat, Pakistan’s efforts were too little, too late. Sufyan Khan added a late consolation, but the damage had already been done.
New Zealand’s Road to Victory
New Zealand’s journey to the final was marked by consistent performances, including a hard-fought 3-2 win over France in the semi-finals. Pakistan, meanwhile, had shown promise with a 4-2 victory over Malaysia, raising hopes of a potential upset.
However, the final was a one-sided affair, with New Zealand’s superior structure, speed, and finishing proving too much for Pakistan to handle.
Key Moments of the Match:
- 1st Quarter: New Zealand took early control, with Scott Cosslett scoring the opener.
- 2nd Quarter: The Kiwis piled on four more goals, leaving Pakistan shell-shocked.
- 3rd Quarter: Zikriya Hayat pulled one back for Pakistan, but hopes of a comeback were dashed when Cosslett struck again.
- 4th Quarter: Sufyan Khan scored late, but New Zealand comfortably sealed their 6-2 triumph.
What This Means for New Zealand and Pakistan?
With this victory, New Zealand retain their place in the FIH Pro League, reinforcing their status as one of the world’s top hockey nations. For Pakistan, the defeat means another year outside the elite Pro League, a bitter blow for a team desperate to return to the highest level.
Pakistan’s coach, Tahir Zaman, will face tough questions after such a heavy loss, while New Zealand’s Greg Nicol can celebrate a successful title defense.
FAQs: New Zealand vs. Pakistan – FIH Nations Cup Final
1. How many times has New Zealand beaten Pakistan in the FIH Nations Cup?
New Zealand has now defeated Pakistan twice in the FIH Nations Cup—once in the 2023 semi-finals (4-3) and again in the 2024 final (6-2).
2. Will Pakistan get another chance to qualify for the FIH Pro League?
Yes, Pakistan can attempt to qualify through the next edition of the FIH Nations Cup or other qualifying tournaments. However, they will need to improve significantly to compete with top-tier teams like New Zealand.
3. Who were the standout players in the final?
- Scott Cosslett (New Zealand) – Scored twice and was a constant threat.
- Zikriya Hayat (Pakistan) – Provided a rare bright spot with his goal.
- New Zealand’s midfield – Controlled the game with precision passing and relentless pressing.
Conclusion
New Zealand’s 6-2 demolition of Pakistan in the FIH Nations Cup final was a statement of intent. The Black Sticks proved they belong in the FIH Pro League, while Pakistan must regroup and find answers after another heartbreaking defeat.
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