Dhaka: High on confidence following their impressive string of performances, an in-form India would look to maintain their unbeaten run when they take on arch-rivals Pakistan in their third and final Super 4 match of the 10th men’s Asia Cup, here today at 5 pm.
Going by their recent form and domination, India, the top-ranked side in the tournament, will start as overwhelming favourites against the world-ranked 13 Pakistan, a nation with a glorious hockey history but currently struggling to get themselves back on the world map.
In the recent past, India have completely dominated over Pakistan, and the Manpreet Singh-led side would look to continue their stranglehold over the neighbouring country. Barring the 1-1 draw against Korea in their first Super 4 match, India have been in red hot form in the tournament, having scored some beautiful field goals and displaying what they are best known for, one-touch attacking hockey.
India are atop the table in Super 4 stage with four points from a win and a draw, followed by Malaysia (3 points), Korea (2 points) and Pakistan (1) from two games each.
Today if it is a draw, it would be enough for India to seal their place in the Sunday’s summit clash as they enjoy a better goal difference than any other side. But it would be easier said than done as there is nothing to lose for the Pakistanis, who would be keen to prove a point to the world that they should not be considered pushovers.
However, the situation is far from rosy for Pakistan as they not only would have to beat India by a big margin to stand in with a chance to qualify for the final but their fate will also depend on result of the other Super 4 match.
With one foot in the final, the Indians though cannot afford to take Pakistan lightly as they very well know that irrespective of current form, the result of any India-Pakistan hockey encounter depends on how well the teams handle pressure and emotions on the turf.
Match time today
India Vs Pakistan Asia Cup Hockey at 5 PM IST.
Live telecast on
STAR Sports First,
Star Sports 2 and
Star Sports HD 2
This post was published on October 21, 2017 6:34 pm