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| October 14, 2006 | Saturday | Ramazan 20, 1427 |
Pakistan need gold at Asiad to qualify for Olympics
KARACHI, Oct 13: Pakistan must reach the final of Asian Games in Doha for a direct entry into 2008 Beijing Olympics, according to International Hockey Federation (FIH) on Friday.
However in case hosts China win the Asian Games gold medal, bronze medallists from Asian Games will also qualify for the Olympics.
Five continental championships to be played from December 2006 to September 2007 are the first qualifying tournament from which nine teams will qualify for Beijing Olympics from August 8 to 24.
Among those who will be Olympics men's hockey automatic qualifiers are hosts China, champions of Olympics qualifiers from Africa, champions of 15th Pan Am Games, champions of Asian Games, and champions of 5th Oceanic Cup.
In addition, based upon world hockey team rankings, three more direct slots will be available for winners, runners-up and bronze medallist of European championship.
One extra quota will be available for Asian continent for highest placed team than the Asian champions and China. If China wins the Asian Games gold, fourth extra quota will be available on basis of world hockey rankings.
Overall 12-nation from across the globe will be featuring in the Beijing Olympics hockey event where Australia will defend their title.—APP
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