JOHOR BAHRU: Sufyan Khan’s strike in the 54th minute helped Pakistan hold arch-rivals India to a 3-3 draw in a thrilling Sultan of Johor Cup match at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium on Tuesday.
The much-awaited match got off to an exciting start as captain Hannan Shahid gave Pakistan the lead after just five minutes by successfully converting a penalty shot.
The Green Shirts almost doubled their lead shortly afterwards, but Sufyan’s penalty corner attempt went narrowly wide of the post.
Both teams pushed hard for goals, but the score remained 1-0 in Pakistan’s favor at half-time.
Pakistan extended their lead in the 39th minute when Sufyan successfully converted another penalty corner, moments after India had missed their own scoring opportunity.
India staged a stunning comeback, scoring three goals in just eight minutes through Araijeet Singh Hundal, Sourabh Anand and Manmeet Singh to grab a 3-2 lead with nine minutes remaining.
However, Pakistan refused to back down. Sufyan evaded the Indian goalkeeper and scored the equalizer five minutes before the end.
The closing minutes saw end-to-end action as both sides pushed for a winner, but the match finished 3-3, leaving the traditional rivals to share the win.
Traditionally, both teams shake hands before the start of the match, which symbolizes sportsmanship despite fierce rivalry.
