LAHORE, Feb 26: Two goals in the final fifth chukker helped Australia stage a comeback and beat Pakistan 7-6 in the opening match of the World Cup Polo Zone D qualifying round in Auckland, New Zealand on Monday.

Pakistan led the first chukker 2-0 as captain Shah Qubilai Alam struck back-to-back goals.

Australia reduced the lead to 3-2 in the second chukker. First, Hissam Ali Haider converted a 30-yard penalty hit to make it 3-0. But Australia cashed in on a 30-yard penalty hit and then a spot penalty hit to reduce the margin.

Pakistan held the lead 4-3 in the third chukker. First Australia made it 3-3 through a field attempt but Hissam again put Pakistan ahead by scoring his second.

In the fourth chukker, both teams scored two each. Hissam struck two more as Pakistan came out with 6-5 lead.

But Australia dominated the fifth chukker scoring two field goals. Pakistan missed two opportunities in the last minute of play when Hissam failed to convert two penalties. First he wasted a 60-yards penalty hit and then 30-yard.

Pakistan play South Africa on Tuesday.