KARACHI: Pakistan’s star forward Rehan Butt thinks that the loss against Japan in the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament is a huge wake up call for the men in green ahead of their two important matches against South Korea and India.

Tuesday’s loss to Japan is set to put additional pressure on Pakistan as they bid to make it to the final of the tournament.

Rehan, who along with seasoned campaigner Sohail Abbas and Salman Akbar got the axe for the event, believes that youngsters in the team need to capitalize on the opportunities made available to them by national selectors.

“PHF told seniors including myself that they were keen on experimenting with youngsters for the Champions Trophy. But the newcomers need to make the most of the opportunities coming their way if they are to challenge the senior lot for Olympic slots,” contended Rehan.

He hoped that the team would re-group before the clash against South Korea and hit its peak against India. “Both South Korea and India have to qualify for Olympics hence they are going all out in their preparations,” said Rehan.

“Our team management needs to make a potent combination for the two upcoming matches if they are harbouring hopes of winning the tournament.”