Key points

  • Pakistan’s junior women’s hockey side edged Chinese Taipei 2‑1 in the Challenger Pool of the 2026 Women’s Junior Asia Cup.
  • Forward Lareeb Abid broke the deadlock in the 30th minute, giving Pakistan an early advantage.
  • Chinese Taipei answered swiftly through Chen Xiao‑Qing four minutes later, restoring parity.
  • Pakistan reclaimed the lead later in the game and held on to secure the three‑point victory.

The encounter, played on Monday, saw Pakistan start the match with high intensity, pressing high and creating several early chances. Lareeb Abid’s strike in the half‑hour mark was a well‑timed finish from the left circle that put the home side ahead and sparked celebrations among the coaching staff and supporters. Just four minutes after the opener, Chinese Taipei’s Chen Xiao‑Qing capitalised on a defensive lapse, leveling the score and threatening to shift the momentum.

Undeterred, the Pakistani side reorganised defensively and continued to probe the opposition’s backline. In the latter stages of the second half, a disciplined build‑up culminated in the decisive goal that restored Pakistan’s lead. The team then tightened its defensive shape, with the goalkeeper and backline combining effectively to deny further Chinese Taipei attacks, ensuring the 2‑1 result stood until the final whistle.

The win is a promising sign for the development of women’s hockey in Pakistan. It reflects the progress made under the national federation’s recent grassroots initiatives and the growing depth of talent at the junior level. By securing three points in the Challenger Pool, Pakistan not only improves its standing in the tournament but also strengthens its case for greater investment and media attention for the women’s game domestically.

Looking ahead, the junior squad will aim to build on this momentum in the remaining pool matches, where every point is crucial for a possible promotion to the main competition bracket. Success in the Asia Cup could translate into increased exposure for the players, more opportunities for overseas training, and a boost to the sport’s profile among young women across the country.