Sporting legends : Manzoor Hussain: A Field Hockey Legend of Pakistan , Career HLs & video

 

Introduction

Manzoor Hussain, born on October 28, 1958, in Sialkot, Pakistan, was a prominent Pakistani field hockey player known for his attacking style and exceptional speed on the field. Often nicknamed "Manzoor Junior" to distinguish him from other players, he was a pivotal forward for Pakistan during the 1970s and 1980s, a period marked by his exceptional dribbling, precision, and goal-scoring ability.

Style of Play

Manzoor Hussain was celebrated for his speed, agility, and masterful control over the ball. As a forward, his style was dynamic, aggressive, and bold, focusing on quick attacks and deft dribbling that enabled him to maneuver past defenders effortlessly. His ability to anticipate the game and exploit openings made him a constant threat, known for converting chances into decisive goals.

Career Highlights in Detail

Manzoor's international hockey career is filled with significant achievements, especially during Pakistan's golden era in the sport. Some of his most notable career highlights include:

1978 Hockey World Cup (Buenos Aires): Manzoor was instrumental in helping Pakistan clinch the title, marking Pakistan’s second World Cup win.

1980 Summer Olympics (Moscow): Despite the political controversies of the Moscow Games, Manzoor delivered outstanding performances, although Pakistan could not participate in the finals due to the Olympic boycott.

1982 Asian Games (New Delhi): One of Manzoor’s most memorable performances was at the Asian Games, where he scored the winning goal in the final against India, securing a 7-1 victory for Pakistan and a gold medal. This match remains legendary for Pakistan, showcasing their hockey dominance over their arch-rivals.

1984 Summer Olympics (Los Angeles): Manzoor played a crucial role in helping Pakistan win the Olympic gold, with his experience and skills as a senior player guiding the team through intense matches. This victory marked Pakistan's third Olympic gold in hockey.

Accolades and Achievements

Olympic Gold Medal: 1984 Los Angeles

World Cup Champion: 1978 Buenos Aires

Asian Games Gold Medal: 1982 New Delhi

Asian Games Silver Medal: 1974

Manzoor was awarded several honors throughout his career, including national awards for his contributions to Pakistan’s success on the international hockey stage.

Some Great Matches

1982 Asian Games Final (Pakistan vs. India): This game is often recalled as Manzoor’s finest, where his memorable goal helped secure a dominating 7-1 victory, demonstrating Pakistan's superiority.

1984 Olympics Final (Pakistan vs. West Germany): Manzoor’s experience and leadership were instrumental in Pakistan’s 2-1 win over West Germany to claim the Olympic gold.

Legacy

Manzoor Hussain’s legacy is etched in Pakistan's sports history as one of the nation’s greatest hockey players. He was instrumental in an era when Pakistan hockey was globally dominant, and his contributions to Pakistan's successes at the World Cup, Olympics, and Asian Games made him a household name. His legacy continues to inspire young hockey players in Pakistan, keeping the spirit of the game alive in the country.

In the below video watch glimpses of skills of Manzoor Hussain