Hockey: Pakistan draws, Kiwis and Poland dominate in FIH Nations Cup

GNIEZNO: New Zealand and Poland emerged victorious in their respective matches on the second day of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Nations Cup, while Pakistan and Malaysia match ended in a draw in the tournament’s opening.

In group A, New Zealand dominated with a 3-0 win over Austria. The Kiwis addressed their earlier shortcomings and securing all three points.

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Meanwhile, Poland fought aggressively to claim a narrow 1-0 victory over South Korea, marking their first win of the tournament.

In the current standings in the FIH Nations Cup points table, New Zealand is leading group A with 6 points having played and won 2 matches. Poland follows behind with 3 points, having won 1 match and lost 1.

Meanwhile, Austria stands third with 3 points, having won 1 and losing another match. South Africa and South Korea are yet to secure any points, each having played and lost one match.

In group B, France is currently at the top of their fixture with a 4-0 victory over Canada. While Malaysia and Pakistan are tied with one point each following their draw.

Reflecting on the tournament’s start, Pakistan and Malaysia engaged in a competitive eight-goal match. Despite brilliant performance from both sides, the match culminated in a 4-4 draw.

Malaysia initially took the lead with 3-0. However, Pakistan made a spurring comeback later and soon leveled the score.

Looking ahead, teams will vie for spots in the semi-finals and ultimately compete for the title on June 9.

Most memorable goal of the tournament so far include New Zealand’s Jonty Elmes, Austria’s Maximilian Scholz, Malaysia’s Fitri Saari, and South Africa’s Matthew Guise-Brown.

Pakistan will next clash with Canda, while Malaysia will take on France.

The 2023–24 Men’s FIH Hockey Nations Cup will see nine teams competing in Gniezno, Poland for the trophy. The tournament is organised by the International Hockey Federation (FIH).

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the tournament began on May 31 and will culminate with finals on June 9. Among the participating teams are Austria, Canada, France, Malaysia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Poland, South Africa, and South Korea.