ISLAMABAD: Sufyan Khan struck twice as Pakistan marked the return of international hockey to home soil after 22 years with a convincing 3-1 victory over South Korea in the opening match of their four-Test series at the Naseer Bunda Hockey Stadium on Thursday.

The bilateral series, approved by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), is Pakistan’s first home assignment against a foreign team since 2004 and forms part of the national side’s preparations for next month’s World Cup.

After a cagey opening quarter ended goalless, Pakistan took control in the second period with sustained attacking pressure.

Their breakthrough came in the 21st minute when Sufyan converted a penalty corner. South Korea responded eight minutes later through Ji Hun Yang, who also scored from a penalty corner to restore parity.

Pakistan regained the lead just before halftime as captain Abu Bakr Mahmood scored a field goal to send the hosts into the break 2-1 ahead.

Sufyan then effectively sealed the contest in the 36th minute, converting his second penalty corner of the evening to put Pakistan two goals clear.

South Korea looked to make a comeback but Pakistan’s defence remained resolute in the closing stages.

“We are very happy. Our hockey is making progress now,” Abu Bakr told Dawn after the match. “Hosting an international team after such a long time is very encouraging for us. Playing against an international side ahead of the World Cup is very important.”

The skipper said the series would also help Pakistan improve their ranking.

“These matches are very beneficial for us because victories here will improve our ranking,” he added.

Federal secretary for Inter-Provincial Coord­ination Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, who is also serving as the interim president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), termed the occasion a significant milestone for the sport in the country.

“This match and this day are very special for us because we are hosting an international team after 22 years,” Wani told Dawn.

“This is an FIH-approved bilateral series, providing a great opportunity for our national team to improve its ranking ahead of the World Cup.”

Wani said Pakistan would continue to increase its international engagements, revealing that the national team is scheduled to tour South Korea in September, while talks with Canada, China and Belgium over future bilateral series were at an advanced stage.

The second match of the series will be played at the same venue on Saturday.

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2026