Women’s Junior Asia Cup: Pakistan make winning start, beat Hong Kong China 2-0

SHARJAH: Pakistan’s junior women’s hockey team made an impressive start to the 2026 Women’s Junior Asia Cup, defeating Hong Kong China 2-0 in their opening match of the Challenger Pool.

Pakistan produced a disciplined performance from start to finish, combining a solid defensive structure with purposeful attacking moves to secure a deserved victory.

The standout performer was Shariqa, who scored both goals for Pakistan. She broke the deadlock in the 34th minute with a field goal before striking again in the 48th minute to double her side’s advantage.

Her two goals proved decisive as Pakistan maintained control of the contest and kept Hong Kong China from finding a way back into the match.

Pakistan’s defensive unit also played an important role in the victory. The team remained organised under pressure and successfully prevented its opponents from converting their attacking opportunities.

The win gives Pakistan an encouraging start to its campaign and provides the young players with confidence heading into their upcoming matches.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation welcomed the performance, with its president Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani congratulating the players and team officials on the victory.

Wani praised the junior women’s team for its strong display and expressed hope that the players would maintain their momentum throughout the tournament.

For the young Pakistan side, the opening victory is particularly significant as they look to establish themselves among Asia’s emerging women’s hockey teams.

The 2-0 result also highlights the team’s ability to combine attacking efficiency with defensive discipline — a balance that could prove crucial as the competition becomes tougher.

With Shariqa already making an early impact and the defence keeping a clean sheet, Pakistan will now look to build on this positive beginning and carry the same energy into its next Challenger Pool fixture.

The team’s performance has given supporters plenty of reason for optimism as the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2026 campaign gets underway.