AMSTELVEEN, AUG 28 /DNA/ – In a tense classification match at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, the Pakistan hockey team clinched the 11th position by defeating South Africa in a dramatic penalty shootout Wagener Hockey Stadium, Amstelveen (NED) today.

The match, which was a battle for the 11th/12th place playoff, ended in a stalemate during regular time, forcing the contest to be decided from the penalty spot. Displaying remarkable composure under pressure, the Pakistani players held their nerve to outperform the South Africans in the shootout, securing a crucial victory.

While the 11th-place finish might not be the podium finish fans had hoped for, the win carries significant weight in the world rankings. Prior to the tournament, Pakistan was ranked 12th in the FIH World Rankings. Today’s victory over South Africa has provided a much-needed boost, propelling the Green Shirts up one position to claim the 11th spot in the official world standings.

The shootout victory not only ends Pakistan’s World Cup campaign on a winning note but also represents a small but positive step forward in their quest to climb back among the top-tier hockey nations. The team will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for future international fixtures.