GNIEZNO (Poland): Pakis­tan faced a disappointing defeat at the hands of South Africa in the third-place match of the FIH Nations Cup on Sunday.

In a match that saw momentum sway from one team to the other, the final score read 4-3.

The initial quarter of the game unfolded without either side managing to secure a goal, setting the stage for a tightly contested match.

However, the second quarter witnessed intense action Samkelo Mvimbi of South Africa broke the deadlock, slotting in the first goal of the match.

Pakistan swiftly responded, with Abubakr Mahmood converting a penalty corner to level the score at 1-1.

As the game progressed into the third quarter, Mustapha Cassiem capitalised on a penalty corner opportunity, giving South Africa the lead once more.

Pakistan, determined to claw their way back, found an equaliser through Abdul Rehman, ensuring the scoreboard remained deadlocked.

With tensions mounting in the decisive final quarter, Keenan Horne struck a crucial blow for South Africa, netting their third goal of the match.

Cassiem added to Paki­stan’s woes with another clinical finish in the 58th minute, extending South Africa’s lead to 4-2.

In a valiant last-minute effort, Hannan Shahid of Pakistan managed to narrow the deficit with a late goal, bringing the scoreline to 3-4.

However, despite their spirited push, time ran out for Pakistan, and South Africa emerged victorious by a single goal margin.

Prior to this match, Pakistan suffered a narrow defeat to New Zealand in the first semi-final, with a score line of 2-1.

Meanwhile, defending champions South Africa faced a similar fate, succumbing to France in the second semi-final.

Published in Dawn, June 10th, 2024