Pakistan down Japan to enter final Tri-nation Hockey.

After a shocking 4-4 draw against Oman on Saturday, Pakistan rebounded to beat Japan 2-1 and qualified for the Tuesday final of the Tri-nation hockey tournament at Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Muscat.

It was Pakistan’s first win over Japan in the last five matches. Earlier, they faced two defeats and managed two draws against Japan.

Pakistan and Japan played two goalless quarters in the match, but then Mubashar Ali opened the scoring with a 32nd minute penalty corner conversion to go 1-0 up in the match.

Japan, just two minutes later, saw a window of opportunity and converted a penalty corner in the 34th minute to bring the score of level terms — 1-1.

The last quarter saw numerous attacks from both teams on opposition goals, but it was Pakistan who managed to find a leak Japan’s defence as experienced striker Umar Bhutta completed a forward move by netting in the 48th minute.

Pakistan have completed their four matches in the double league format, earning eight points to lead the table and are followed by Japan having four points while Oman is on third with a single point.