Pakistan go 2-3 down to Argentina in the FIH Pro League

By Alam Zeb Safi
LAHORE: Spirited Pakistan on Thursday went 3-2 down to Argentina in their second game of the FIH Pro League in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, their second defeat in the last three days.
Argentina went ahead in the second quarter when Tomás Domene opened the scoring in the 19th minute, finishing low from close range after a slick build-up play that carved open Pakistan’s defence. The goal gave the hosts the lead and punctuated a period in which they began to find rhythm against a resilient visiting side.
The match burst into life in the third quarter. Pakistan hit back in the 36th minute through Muhammad Ammad, who capitalised on a well-timed pass from teammate Zikriya Hayat to level the scores and inject fresh belief into the Green-shirts’ campaign. However soon afterwards Argentina regained the lead when Nicolás Della Torre executed a clinical drag-flick from a penalty corner, firing low into the net in the 41st minute. Just moments latter Maico Casella extended the advantage with his own penalty-corner strike, guiding the ball past Pakistan goalkeeper Abdullah Khan and putting the hosts ahead 3-1.
Pakistan refused to capitulate. In the latter stages of the third quarter, Waleed Rana pounced on a loose ball from a penalty-corner situation to pull a goal back for Pakistan at the stroke of third quarter, making it 3-2 and setting up a tense final quarter. Despite mounting pressure and several attacking forays into Argentina’s circle, Pakistan could not find an equaliser. Argentina’s defence held firm, with their goalkeeper making key saves in the closing stages to preserve the lead.
The outcome moves Argentina up in the Pro League standings, giving the hosts valuable points early in the campaign. Pakistan, making spirited runs and showing flashes of attacking intent, will rue the missed opportunities that might have earned them at least a draw on the road.
Argentina’s Thomas Habif was named player of the match, highlighting his influential all-round performance in midfield that helped his team manage the tempo throughout the tight contest.
Both teams now turn their attention to upcoming fixtures as the FIH Pro League season progresses, with Argentina seeking to build momentum in front of their home supporters and Pakistan aiming to regroup and return stronger.
Pakistan face Netherlands in the return leg on Saturday. Pakistan had lost to Netherlands in their opener 5-2 the other day.
Argentina had lost to Netherlands 4-0 in their opening show the other day.