Day 8 and the final match of the day of the Men's Hero Hockey Junior World Cup in India, where Pakistan take on India.

Last match of the day promised to be exciting, as always when India and Pakistan meet in international hockey. The two neighbours have been giants of the hockey scene for the longest time and their classic rivalry always attracts big crowds, whether at senior or junior level, for a final or a 9th place as tonight.

Both teams were eager to get into action and the flag waving crowd was roaring in anticipation. The Indians, sporting their new bright yellow kit, rushed forward from the opening whistle. They created a few chances but, as too often in this competition, were too hasty in trying to conclude. They were surprised in the 7th minute when Pakistani Muhammad Dilber received the ball behind their defense and calmly passed it to Rizwan Ali left totally unmarked in the middle of the circle for an easy push in goal.

India tried to come back quickly but, encouraged by the crowd, were pushing their runs a tad too far, making it difficult for themselves to deliver useful passes. Pakistani goal-keeper Mazhar Abbas handled well some hot situations and Pakistan weathered the Indian storm calmly, dashing forward in bold counter-attacks each time they had an opening.

India were close, even very close, on multiple occasions but could not manage to slot one in goal and Pakistan were still holding their fra.