Day 4 of the Men’s Hockey5s Asia Cup 2023 unfolded with excitement as teams battled for their positions and a shot at glory in the tournament taking place in Salalah, Oman. This event, which marks the first-ever Hockey5s championship at the Asian level, also doubles as a qualifier for the FIH Hockey5s World Cup 2024. With Oman securing its World Cup berth as the host nation, three other teams are fervently competing for the remaining spots. The matches on Day 4 held the promise of thrilling action and crucial decisions.
Indonesia vs. Afghanistan – Fight for 9th-11th Place
The first match of the day featured Indonesia facing Afghanistan in the battle for the 9th-11th Place Pool. Indonesia’s red team dominated the match, delivering a resounding 15-2 victory over Afghanistan. Mochamad Fathur (Shirt 19) was named the Player of the Match for his remarkable performance. This win secured Indonesia’s place in the 9th-10th Place match, while Afghanistan prepared for their clash with Hong Kong China, which would determine the last positions.
Japan vs. Iran – Iran’s Convincing Win
In the second match of the day, Japan and Iran faced off in a crucial match that would affect their positions in the overall tournament standings. Iran’s red team displayed their dominance, defeating Japan 10-1. This victory earned Iran the opportunity to progress further and aim for the top of the table. Japan, on the other hand, would compete for the 7th-8th Place. Player of the Match award went to a standout Iranian player.
Oman vs. Kazakhstan – Oman’s Gritty Victory
Oman, the host nation, faced Kazakhstan in the third match of the day. The red team put up a determined effort to prevent Kazakhstan from scoring. Oman’s goalkeeper delivered an exceptional performance, ensuring that the blue team failed to find the back of the net. The decisive goal of the match was scored by AL FAZARI Rashad. This hard-fought victory propelled Oman into their next Crossover match against Bangladesh, where a win could lead them to the semifinals. Kazakhstan, meanwhile, prepared for their 7th-8th Place match. Player of the Match award went to an outstanding Omani player.
Hong Kong China vs. Indonesia – Indonesia’s Commanding Win
In their first match of the day, Hong Kong China faced an Indonesia team that had already secured a convincing 15-goal victory. Although Indonesia’s players might have felt the fatigue from their earlier match, they were determined to maintain their position in the standings. The red team made efforts to resist, but the white team managed to score eight goals, securing their win. This victory meant that Hong Kong China would face Afghanistan in the 9th-11th Place match. Player of the Match award was given to an exceptional Indonesian player.
Bangladesh vs. Oman – Oman’s Victory in a Thrilling Match
A high-stakes match unfolded between Bangladesh and Oman, with both teams vying for a place in the semifinals. The white-clad Omanis initiated the match with goals from AL FAZARI Rashad (x2), AL SHAAIBI Khalid, AL-SAADI Salah, and AL LAWATI Fahad. They maintained their lead throughout the game. Although the Bangladesh team made a valiant effort to stage a comeback, goals from SAROWAR Sawon and MOHAMMAD Uddin (x2) weren’t enough to overturn the result. Oman secured a 5-3 victory and advanced to the semifinals, where they would face Pakistan. Bangladesh, a formidable team in their own right, would compete for the 5th-6th Place against Iran. Player of the Match award was presented to an outstanding Omani player.
Malaysia vs. Iran – Malaysia’s Control
The last match of the day was a crucial showdown between Malaysia and Iran to determine which team would advance to the semifinals. The Malaysian team maintained control of the match, scoring six goals, with contributions from various players. Iran managed to score only one goal through SALEHIPOUR Mohammadali. Malaysia’s victory propelled them into a semifinal clash with India, while Iran would compete against Bangladesh for the 5th-6th Place.
Day 4 of the Men’s Hockey5s Asia Cup 2023 was filled with intense matches that determined the destiny of the participating teams. As the tournament progresses, the competition becomes fiercer, and the quest for World Cup qualification intensifies. With each match, new leaders emerge, and the path to glory becomes clearer. Stay tuned for more thrilling action from Salalah, Oman, as the battle for supremacy and World Cup qualification continues.
