The Asian Champions Trophy 2024 ended in dramatic fashion, with India securing a 1-0 win over hosts China in the final to clinch their fifth title. However, another incident from the final has grabbed attention on social media: Pakistan players were seen holding the Chinese flag, sparking mixed reactions online. Pakistan, who lost to China in the semifinals, went on to defeat South Korea 5-2 to claim the third spot in the tournament.
India’s victory in the final was hard-fought, with Jugraj Singh scoring the only goal of the match in the fourth quarter. The Indian team, which has undergone a major reshuffle, remained undefeated throughout the tournament, showcasing their strength and adaptability. China’s defense made it tough for India to break through, but Singh’s goal in the 51st minute ensured India extended their record with a fifth Asian Champions Trophy title.
The image of Pakistan players holding the Chinese flag during the final quickly went viral, with many on social media questioning the gesture. Broadcasters commented on the incident during the live telecast, suggesting that Pakistan’s support for China was evident. Given Pakistan’s loss to China in the semifinals, the gesture seemed to spark discussions about the rivalry between India and Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Performance Against South Korea:
Earlier in the day, Pakistan faced South Korea in the third-place playoff, delivering an impressive 5-2 win to secure the bronze medal. Pakistan’s win came after a disappointing semifinal loss to China, but they bounced back in style. The goals came from Sufyan Khan (38’, 49’), Hannan Shahid (39’, 54’), and Rooman (45’).
South Korea took the early lead in the 16th minute when Jungjun Lee scored a spectacular goal, evading Pakistan’s defense. However, after the half-time break, Pakistan showed renewed energy and determination. Sufyan Khan equalized with a penalty corner in the 38th minute, quickly followed by a brilliant field goal by Hannan Shahid, who has been in outstanding form throughout the tournament.
South Korea briefly equalized in the 40th minute, with Jihun Yang converting a penalty corner to level the score at 2-2. However, Pakistan responded quickly, with Rooman regaining the lead with a well-executed field goal in the 45th minute. Pakistan continued to dominate, applying intense pressure on the Korean defense in the final quarter.
In the 49th minute, Sufyan Khan scored his second goal of the match from another penalty corner, taking Pakistan’s lead to 4-2. Hannan Shahid sealed the victory with a stunning field goal in the 54th minute, marking his sixth goal of the tournament. Pakistan’s defense, bolstered by the substitution of Muneeb Ur-Rehman for Ishtiaq Abdullah Khan in the final quarter, held firm, preventing Korea from making any significant advances.
Social Media Reactions to Pakistan Holding China’s Flag:
The sight of Pakistan players holding China’s flag during the India-China final ignited various reactions on social media. Some users speculated that it was a show of solidarity following Pakistan’s semifinal loss to China, while others criticized the act, calling it unsportsmanlike. The commentary team noted that it was clear where Pakistan’s support lay during the final, adding fuel to the online debate.
Despite the controversy, Pakistan’s strong finish in the tournament should not be overlooked. Their 5-2 win over Korea and bronze medal finish showed their potential to bounce back from setbacks, as seen after their semifinal defeat. Sufyan Khan and Hannan Shahid emerged as standout performers for Pakistan, with both players scoring crucial goals throughout the competition.
Conclusion:
India’s victory in the final of the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 reaffirmed their dominance in the sport, with Jugraj Singh’s decisive goal securing their record fifth title. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s display of holding the Chinese flag during the final added an unexpected layer of intrigue to the event, with social media buzzing over the gesture. Pakistan’s bronze medal victory against South Korea, powered by stellar performances from Sufyan Khan and Hannan Shahid, capped off a memorable tournament.
