LAHORE - Pakistan's struggles in the FIH Pro League continued on Saturday as they suffered a crushing 7-1 defeat against hosts Belgium at the Belfius Hockey Arena, extending their losing streak to eight matches in the nine-team competition.
Belgium's Explosive Start
Belgium made an explosive start and took the lead in just the third minute when Nelson Onana converted a penalty corner. The hosts maintained their narrow advantage until halftime after a tightly contested second quarter failed to produce any goals.
Pakistan's Brief Resurgence
Pakistan briefly raised hopes of a comeback early in the third quarter when Rana Waheed Ashraf scored the equaliser in the 33rd minute. However, the momentum quickly shifted back in Belgium's favour as Thibeau Stockbroekx restored the lead four minutes later before Alexander Hendrickx added a third goal in the 42nd minute.
Dominant Final Quarter
The world-class Belgian side then dominated the final quarter, scoring four more times to complete an emphatic victory. Tobias Biekens struck twice, while Guillaume Hellin and veteran forward Tom Boon added a goal each as the hosts overwhelmed the visitors with relentless attacking hockey.
Standings Impact
The convincing win lifted Belgium to the top of the FIH Pro League standings with 22 points from eight matches, overtaking Australia on goal difference. For Pakistan, the defeat further highlighted a difficult campaign, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the table with a goal difference of minus 24.
Looking Ahead
The Green Shirts will look to halt their disappointing run when they take on Spain in their next fixture at the same venue on Sunday.
Tribute paid to Shahenshah-e-Ghazal Mehdi Hassan.
