Seven-time Asian Games champion Pakistan set up a semifinal date with India by beating Malaysia 6-1 today to lead its group in the men's hockey competition. Pakistan, which has failed to make the Asian Games final since winning its last gold medal in 1990, played at a blistering pace despite the rain-affected waterlogged pitch causing problems for both teams.Inside-left Mudassar Ali and center-forward Kashif Jawad scored two goals each in open-field play to lead Pakistan's charge, while wing strikers Muhammad Nadeem and Salim Khalid had one goal each.Malaysia got its only goal through a penalty corner conversion by skipper Kuhan Shanmuganathan.Completing its third consecutive easy win in Pool B, Pakistan topped the group with nine points while Malaysia took the second spot with six points from three matches.Malaysia, which also figures in the semifinals, will take on Olympic silver medallists South Korea.Defending champions India had earlier finished second behind South Korea in Pool A.In two recent encounters during last month's Champions Trophy in Germany, Pakistan and India won one match each, though Pakistan won the crucial bronze-medal match. (AP)
Pakistan sets up semifinal clash with India
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