Japan Crushes Pakistan 3-0 to Clinch U-18 Asia Hockey Cup 2025
DALIAN, CHINA – Japan delivered a dominant performance to claim the U-18 Asia Hockey Cup 2025 title, defeating Pakistan 3-0 in a one-sided final held in the Chinese city of Dalian.
The Japanese team took early control of the match and never relinquished it, effectively ending Pakistan’s unbeaten run in the tournament and sealing their spot at the top of Asia’s youth hockey scene.
Yuma Fujiwara was the standout performer, scoring twice — first in the 22nd minute and again in the 38th — giving Japan a firm grip on the match by halftime. Tatsuaki Yasui added a third goal in the 49th minute by converting a penalty corner, securing the victory and putting the game out of reach for Pakistan.
Despite the loss, Pakistan entered the final as tournament favorites, having showcased strong form throughout. Their journey included a thrilling semi-final win against Malaysia that ended 3-3 in regulation time and was decided in a dramatic 4-3 shootout victory.
Earlier in the tournament, Pakistan defeated China 2-1 in the quarterfinals and produced dominant wins in the group stage — beating Hong Kong 8-0, Sri Lanka 9-0, and Bangladesh 6-3. The Green Shirts had looked poised for the title before being outclassed in the final.
This marks a second consecutive disappointment for Pakistan’s junior side, following their 6-2 loss to New Zealand in the FIH Nations Cup final in Kuala Lumpur last month.
For Japan, this emphatic victory reinforces their growing strength in international youth hockey. Their cohesive play, tactical discipline, and sharp finishing have earned them a place among Asia’s elite junior teams.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will regroup and reflect on the missed opportunity as they look to build on their strong performances and address key tactical shortcomings ahead of upcoming international competitions.
