Pakistan and Wales Hockey World Cup clash ends with 3-3 draw

AMSTERDAM (Agencies): Pakistan and Wales shared the points after a thrilling 3-3 draw in a FIH Hockey World Cup Pool D encounter at the Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, Netherlands on Monday. The two teams traded momentum throughout the contest, with Pakistan making a bright start before Wales responded strongly in the second quarter. Pakistan then produced a determined final-quarter comeback, only for Wales to find a late equaliser and ensure the match ended all square. Four-time champions Pakistan opened the scoring in the first quarter, establishing an early 1-0 advantage through a goal by Abdul Rehman. The opening period saw Pakistan look composed in possession and dangerous in attack, while Wales struggled to turn its opportunities into goals. The momentum shifted sharply in the second quarter. Wales scored twice to overturn the deficit and move ahead 2-1 at half-time. Pakistan continued to apply pressure and earned a series of penalty corners, but Wales’ defence managed to withstand the pressure and protect its narrow lead. The third quarter proved to be a tense and closely fought period. Neither side was able to add to the scoreboard, despite both teams creating opportunities. With Wales still leading 2-1 heading into the final 15 minutes, Pakistan faced a crucial fourth quarter. Pakistan responded in impressive fashion, scoring twice in the final quarter to turn the match on its head and move 3-2 ahead. Sufyan Khan and Hannan Shahid scored each within span of two minutes gave the team a strong chance of claiming victory. But Wales had one final response to find a late equaliser to make it 3-3, denying Pakistan the full three points and producing a dramatic finish to an entertaining contest. For Wales, Gareth Furlong scored twice while Rhys Bradshaw also netted once.