Pakistan's draw against India in their last match was enough to book a spot in the quarterfinals of the Hockey World League semi-final 2015 in Antwerp, Belgium. But, the men in green have bigger ambitions in the tournament.
The Hockey World League semi-final gives Pakistan a last ditch opportunity to grab their slot for Rio Olympics. Hence, they are eager to perform better and establish themselves as one of the best hockey nation at present as well.
Pakistan face France in their last group game and the Asian giants are expected to defeat the French side, who have also qualified for the quarters of the tournament.
So, France are not under immense pressure to win the game, which might also bring the best out of the French players.
The French team sealed their place in the round of eight after defeating Poland in their last game convincingly with the scoreline reading 4-1. France might be eager to defeat Pakistan, which played some good hockey against India.
Pakistan cannot take the French team lightly, as they can go all out on their attack with some pacy players, who are a huge threat. If Pakistan plays a high defensive line, the French will be keen to take advantage of the situation.
The team, which loses the match will have a tough task in their hand as Belgium are favourites to top pool B and with Belgium being hosts and a strong side at home, both teams will avoid the European team.
Belgium face Ireland on Sunday and the hosts are expected to win the game and remain undefeated in the group and head over to the quarter-finals of the competition.
It will be a huge shame for Pakistan if they fail to defeat France as the men in green were once one of the superpowers in world hockey. With players such as Mohammad Rizwan, Muhammad Imran, Muhammad Waqas amongst others, they will try to defeat France.
On the other hand, France might do everything possible to bring down the men in green, who are known for their unpredictability factor.
This result should inject huge confidence in the French players, who outclassed the Polish team in their last encounter.
Where to Watch Live
The World Hockey League semi-final clash between Pakistan and France is scheduled for 12pm local time (3:30pm IST, 3pm PKT) with live TV coverage in India on Star Sports 1 and Star Sports 1 HD with live streaming option on starsports.com. Audience in Pakistan can catch the game live on PTV.
Australian viewers can catch the action live on Fox Sports and Foxtel.
Ireland and the UK viewers can follow it live on Sky Sports with the live streaming option on Sky Sports.
Viewers in Belgium can watch the game live on Telenet.
