Pakistan have secured a place in the semi-finals of the ongoing FIH Nations Hockey Cup, edging past Malaysia on goal difference after the final round of Pool B matches.

Despite Malaysia defeating Japan in their last group game, the margin of victory was not enough to take them through. Japan scored in the final four minutes, narrowing the deficit and paving the way for Pakistan to qualify for the semi-finals based on a superior goal average. Both Pakistan and Malaysia ended with four points on the table, but Pakistan had one more goal.

Pakistan will now face France in the first semi-final on Friday, while New Zealand will lock horns with South Korea in the other semi-final.

Earlier, Pakistan were narrowly defeated by New Zealand in a thrilling 4–3 encounter. For Pakistan, Abdul Rehman netted twice in the 13th and 14th minutes, while Rana Waheed Ashraf added a third goal in the 28th minute. New Zealand’s Scott Cosslett scored a hat-trick, and Nicewood contributed one goal.

The dramatic pool-stage finish has reignited hopes for Pakistan, who are now just one win away from the final.