GUANGZHOU, Nov 25: Pakistan played their hockey final against Malaysia in front of a charged crowed in the Aoti Stadium, with over a thousand Pakistani fans comprising local students, professionals and businessmen supporting the national team. “I came here at the stadium at 11'O clock to ensure tickets for the exciting final,” said Aamir, 29, who is professionally employed with a multinational company in Shenzen city.

With temperature in the Guangzhou touching almost 23 degree census, it was home conditions for the green shirts as they qualified for a direct Olympic berth with final win.

“I am here with my husband,” said Kulsoom Abdul, who flew all the way from USA to witness the Asian Games. “It was really a wonderful experience and I am more delighted for our team's win” said Kulsoom.

Mohammad Saadat, 20, a medical university student hailing from Abbotabad, said: “At last we have won something big and it's a gift for the Pakistani nation amid terrorism and natural disasters.”

He asserted that Pakistan's hockey team should focus at ensuring an Olympic gold.

Jawwad, hailing from Peshawar and also a Medical University student said: “Whenever Pakistan is playing, we wish to see them win but the success is few and far between these days. Si this final win is such a joy for us.”

Hundreds of Chinese and Malaysian fans were also present in the stadium Although hockey is not a popular sport in China.

“Hockey — called as qu-gun-qui here in the Chinese language — is not a famous sport in China but we are here for the love of the game and because our kids wanted to see some action,” said Ms Shemail Tong, a local resident. “Pakistan have won and I am happy, as all Chinese fans are,” she added.

Pakistani fans constantly cheered their team during the 70-minute final and slogans of “Pakistan-China firnedship” were heard all over the stadium.