The final between Pakistan and Japan ended in a draw in the stipulated time and later Japan defeated the Green Shirts in a penalty shootout.

Saying that that winning or losing was part of the game, the prime minister announced to award Rs1 million for each player of the team. He said, “The national team has won the hearts of the entire nation.”

In a press release, the PM Media Office quoting the prime minister said that the government was taking all steps to promote sports in the country, particularly hockey.

He earlier congratulated the side for making it to the tournament final after 13 years.

He said that renewed interest in hockey throughout Pakistan signalled a promising trend for the future.

Also President Asif Ali Zardari lauded the “excellent performance” and said that the development and promotion of hockey needed attention.

 “It is hoped that the Pakistani hockey team will perform better in the future,” he noted.

Likewise, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed her best wishes for the Pakistan side.

She said, “Pakistan will emerge victorious in the final against Japan. The team’s performance captured the nation’s attention, and hopes are high for a triumphant outcome.”