Mansoor Ahmed: A Legendary Pakistani Field Hockey Goalkeeper
Personal Details
– Full Name: Mansoor Ahmed
– Date of Birth: January 7, 1968
– Place of Birth: Karachi, Pakistan
– Date of Death: May 12, 2018
Career Highlights
– Position: Goalkeeper
– National Team Debut: 1986
Major Achievements
– 1994 Hockey World Cup:
Mansoor Ahmed is best remembered for his pivotal role in Pakistan’s victory in the 1994 World Cup held in Sydney, Australia. He was the hero in the final, where Pakistan defeated the Netherlands in a penalty shootout.
– Olympic Games:
Participated in three Olympic Games: 1988 in Seoul, 1992 in Barcelona, and 1996 in Atlanta. He won a bronze medal in the 1992 Olympics.
– Champions Trophy:
Part of the team that won the Champions Trophy in 1994. He also played in several other editions, helping Pakistan secure multiple medals.
– Asian Games:
Won gold medals in the 1990 and 1994 Asian Games.
– World Cup Appearances:
Apart from the 1994 World Cup, he also participated in the 1990 World Cup where Pakistan won the silver medal.
Other Contributions
– Captaincy:
Mansoor also captained the national team during his career.
– Awards:
He received numerous awards and accolades for his performances, including the President’s Pride of Performance award in 1988.
Legacy
Mansoor Ahmed is celebrated for his outstanding goalkeeping skills, particularly his ability to perform under pressure. He is remembered as one of the best goalkeepers in the history of field hockey, not just in Pakistan but worldwide. His contributions to the sport have inspired many young hockey players in Pakistan.