Johor bahru: The Young Tigers were outplayed 7-2 by Pakistan in their opening match of the 2025 Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC) International Hockey Tournament at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium here tonight. Pakistan started strong, with Sufyan Khan converting a penalty corner just three minutes into the match.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia, guided by head coach Nor Saiful Zaini Nasiruddin, managed to level the score in the 20th minute through a penalty corner goal by Ammar Qusyairi Abd Halim. However, Pakistan quickly regained the lead a minute later with another goal from Sufyan, bringing the score to 2-1.

Pakistan’s captain, Hannan Shahid, extended the lead with a field goal in the 30th minute. The visitors maintained their momentum, with Khan Nadeem and Sufyan adding two more goals in the 32nd and 34th minutes, respectively, both from penalty corners, bringing the score to 5-1.

Malaysia managed to cut the deficit to 2-5 a minute later through a penalty corner goal by Azimuddin Shakir Kamaruddin. However, Pakistan continued their dominance into the second half. Khan Nadeem scored his second goal of the night in the 44th minute with another penalty corner, followed by a field goal from Fayyaz Hamza in the 52nd minute, finalizing a 7-2 victory.

In the post-match press conference, Nor Saiful attributed the defeat to the team’s inexperience in managing open play situations. He emphasized the need for a more open, one-on-one playing style, highlighting the opportunities missed during the match. He acknowledged Pakistan’s experience and noted that some of their players also participate in their senior squad.

Earlier in the tournament, India secured a 3-2 victory against Great Britain. The Young Tigers are set to face Australia in their next match tomorrow at 6.15 pm.