India vs Pakistan: 'India Not Playing Structural Hockey' - Pakistan Head Coach Ahead Of Asian Champions Trophy Clash

Ahead of Asian Champions Trophy 2023 group clash against India, Pakistan head coach Muhammad Saqlain has pointed out that hosts India are not playing structural hockey. He highlighted that the side is "relying mainly on counter-attacking". India, who have already qualified for the semi-finals of the ongoing continental event, are set to face Pakistan at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday. On the other hand, Pakistan are yet to book their berth for the knockout stage. They are currently placed at the fourth spot in the six-team table.

"India is not playing structural hockey, but Pakistan is. India is simply playing over fitness," Saqlain said during pre-match media conference.

"Structural hockey is played by Korea and Japan. India has been playing behind the ball mostly and relying mainly on counter-attacking," he added.

The Pakistan coach admitted it will be a tough ask for his young side to get the better of India.

"It's been quite some time since Pakistan beat India in a competitive hockey game. This is a young side consisting of 14 players who have never faced India before," Saqlain said.

Saqlain said that while Pakistan have played an attacking game, finishing is still an area of concern.

"Finishing has been an area of concern for us. We have explained to the boys about their positioning during the missed chances. Our centre forward will have an important role to play tomorrow," he said.

Saqlain, appointed as the head coach of the Pakistan side for this tournament, admitted they need more time to work on the aspect of physical fitness.

"Our team has been playing in an attacking manner after quite a long time. We have been working with the side for two months now. Physical fitness has been