Pakistan must fix defense to beat New Zealand in FIH Nations Cup final: Hassan Sardar

Business Recorder

8 hours ago

As Pakistan gear up to face New Zealand in the final of the FIH Hockey Nations Cup in Kuala Lumpur today, former Olympian Hassan Sardar has praised the team's attacking improvements but cautioned that defensive lapses must be addressed to clinch the title and earn promotion to the prestigious FIH Pro League.
In an exclusive interview with Business Recorder, Sardar, who led Pakistan to Olympic gold in 1984 and a World Cup title in 1982, said the team showed real promise in attack, particularly with their ability to score field goals and capitalize on penalty corners.
'The positive thing is that our forward line is scoring field goals and we are converting penalty corners too,' Sardar noted. 'That's very encouraging in modern hockey.'
However, he emphasised that winning the final will require defensive discipline and collective responsibility.
'Defensively, I saw many mistakes. We need to work as a unit, not just in the forward line but overall,' he said. 'When the forwards are out of the game, midfield and defense must step up. They should remain connected like a chain.'
Sardar stressed that modern hockey demands an all-round approach.
'Defense and attack go hand in hand. All eleven players must support each other. That's what wins matches today.'
Nations Cup final: a ticket to the elite level
The Nations Cup is not just a trophy - it's a gateway. A win today will promote Pakistan to the FIH Pro League, joining global powerhouses like Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, and India.
'This is a small league, but winning it opens the door to the senior league. That's where real international hockey is played,' said Sardar. 'Pakistan has a high chance of qualifying.'
Road to redemption
Despite a group-stage loss to New Zealand, Pakistan have impressed with resilience and improved structure throughout the tournament. Their semi-final win was a testament to grit and growing confidence.
Now, they get a chance at redemption, against the same team they previously lost to, but with silverware and Pro League promotion on the line.
'I believe this team will win'
Sardar also praised the team's fighting spirit.
'I liked the performance of the Pakistan Hockey team. The matches won and lost were played well. It's a good sign that the team played well,' he said.
'Although they lost to New Zealand earlier, I believe this team will win. Their morale is high, and that's a good sign.'
Watch Live
Pakistani fans can catch the final live at 6:00 PM PST on Tapmad.