One Step from Glory: Skipper Ammad Butt confident as Pakistan eye World Cup berth
One Step from Glory: Skipper Ammad Butt confident as Pakistan eye World Cup berth
By Nawaz Gohar ; A resurgence is brewing in Pakistan hockey. After a flawless, unbeaten run through the pool stages of the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup Qualifier, the Green Shirts stand on the precipice of a return to the world stage. For Captain Ammad Butt, the mission is simple: one more win to restore national pride.
The “Men in Green” arrived in the knockout stage with a perfect record, dispatching China, Malaysia, and Austria with a blend of tactical discipline and the classic flair that once defined the sport in Pakistan. Now, only a formidable Japanese side stands between them and a ticket to the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.
Speaking from the team’s base in Ismailia, Ammad Butt struck a balance between satisfaction and steely focus. “Winning all three pool matches has provided us with immense momentum, and the performance of the boys has been incredibly encouraging,” Ammad shared in an exclusive video message.
“However, the past is behind us. Friday’s semifinal is a knockout. There is no room for error. We must win to ensure our place in the World Cup and present this achievement as a gift to our nation.”
The road to this qualifier was not without its hurdles, but Ammad was quick to credit the revitalized support system back home. He expressed deep gratitude toward Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi and the Government of Pakistan for their intervention during a turbulent period for the federation.
“The support from the government and the PHF has been vital. Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, in particular, has stood by us, ensuring the players were facilitated in the best possible way. We are responding to that trust on the field,” the skipper remarked.
Ammad also highlighted the “positive ecosystem” created by the management. Under the guidance of Head Coach Khawaja Junaid and Team Manager Olympian Tahir Sultan, the squad has transformed into a cohesive unit.
“The atmosphere is electric. From the coaching staff to the team doctor from the Pakistan Sports Board, everyone is pulling in the same direction,” Ammad noted. “The players have worked tirelessly for this moment. Morale is at an all-time high.”
The stakes could not be higher. With two qualifying tournaments running simultaneously in Ismailia and Santiago, the top three finishers here will secure direct entry to the World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
As Pakistan prepares for the tactical challenge posed by Japan, the nation holds its breath. “We are just one step away,” Ammad concluded with an appeal to the fans. “I request the entire nation to pray for us. We will give everything on the pitch to make Pakistan proud once again.”
