China reach Asian Hockey Champion Trophy's final after beating Pakistan

Pakistan fail to convert chances as China book final spot

China beat Pakistan 4-3 to reach the final of the Asian Hockey Champion Trophy on Saturday, July 2.

Pakistan started the match brightly and created a number of chances but failed to convert them into goals.

China took the lead in the 15th minute through a penalty corner.

Pakistan fight back

Pakistan fought back and equalised in the 25th minute through a field goal.

However, China regained the lead just two minutes later through another penalty corner.

Pakistan levelled the match again in the 35th minute through a penalty stroke.

China score two quick goals

China then scored two quick goals in the 40th and 42nd minutes to take a 4-2 lead, again through a penalty corner.

Pakistan pulled one goal back in the 55th minute but it was not enough to prevent China from winning the match.

China will now face Japan in the final on Sunday, July 3.

Post-match reaction

"We are very happy to reach the final," said China coach Luo Zhiqiang.

"We played well today and we were able to take our chances. We are now looking forward to the final against Japan."

"We are disappointed to lose but we can be proud of our performance," said Pakistan captain Muhammad Rizwan.

"We had a number of chances but we failed to take them. We will learn from our mistakes and come back stronger next time."

Conclusion

China's victory was a deserved one. They were the better team on the day and they took their chances when they came. Pakistan can be proud of their performance but they will be disappointed not to have reached the final.

The final between China and Japan is set to be a close and exciting match. Both teams are in good form and it is difficult to predict who will come out on top.