Dazhou: Pakistan has advanced to the final of the U-18 Asia Hockey Cup 2025 after defeating Malaysia 4-3 in a penalty shootout in the semifinal held in Dazhou, China. The match reached a thrilling conclusion as it ended 3-3 in regular time, with Hasan Shahbaz scoring twice and Abdullah Awan adding another goal for Pakistan. According to Radio Pakistan, the hero of the match was goalkeeper Ghulam Mustafa, who made a decisive save on Malaysia's final attempt during the shootout. This victory ensures Pakistan's place in the final, where they will face Japan at the same venue on Sunday. Pakistan's journey to the final has been marked by an unbeaten run in the group stage. They secured their semifinal spot by defeating hosts China 2-1 on Wednesday. Earlier in the tournament, they recorded convincing victories against Bangladesh (6-3), Sri Lanka (9-0), and Hong Kong (8-0).