Pakistan’s winless streak continues in FIH Pro League
This is the 14th successive defeat from Pakistan in the league so far with just two games in hand
By Alam Zeb Safi
LONDON: England scored twice in the second half to overcome Pakistan 2-1 in the men’s FIH Pro League on Wednesday, condemning the visitors to their 14th defeat of the 2025-26 campaign at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre.
After a goalless opening half, England broke the deadlock five minutes into the third quarter when Phil Roper converted a field goal following sustained pressure inside the Pakistan circle.
England, who dominated possession and territory throughout the contest, doubled their advantage early in the fourth quarter through Samuel Hooper. The forward capitalised on one of England’s 17 penalty corners, firing home in the 59th minute to give the hosts breathing space.
Pakistan responded almost immediately through Waheed Ashraf Rana, who pulled a goal back with a field effort in the 55th minute, but the visitors were unable to find an equaliser despite a late push.
The result reflected England’s superiority in key statistical categories. The hosts recorded 35 circle penetrations compared with Pakistan’s 12 and earned 17 penalty corners, converting one. Pakistan managed only three penalty corners and failed to capitalise on any of them.
England’s pressure was evident from the outset, although Pakistan’s defence held firm during a scoreless first half. Liam Sanford received a green card in the second quarter, but England continued to control the tempo and eventually turned their territorial dominance into goals after the break.
Roper’s strike at 35:06 gave England a deserved lead before Hooper’s penalty-corner conversion proved decisive. Rana’s late goal ensured a nervy finish, but England successfully saw out the closing minutes to secure all three points.
For Pakistan, the defeat continued a difficult Pro League season. The former world champions have struggled for consistency against the elite international sides in the competition and Wednesday’s loss marked their 14th setback of the campaign.
England finished with two goals from one field goal and one penalty-corner conversion, while Pakistan’s lone goal came from open play.
The victory strengthens England’s position in the standings, while Pakistan will look to halt their losing run in their next Pro League fixture.
