The two teams had met in their final group match two days ago in Oman’s capital city, with Pakistan emerging as 1-0 winners.

The narrow gap between the teams suggested the semi-final could prove an equally tight affair at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex.

Malaysia looked to gain revenge and began the brighter, with Faizal Saari giving them a 1-0 advantage.

A strong response from Pakistan saw the match swing in their favour, as Irfan Jr, Abu Mahmood and two goals from Aleem Bilal gave them a 4-1 lead.

Their lead evaporated in the second half as Malaysia scored three goals without reply, which forced the match into a shoot-out.

Pakistan held their nerve to win the shoot-out 3-1 and book their place in tomorrow’s final.

India, who topped the standings at the end of the round robin event, faced the challenge of Japan in the second semi-final.

Japan, the surprise winners of the Asian Games, hoped to spring another surprise.

The two teams finished the first half level at 1-1.

India would eventually edge their opponents in the second half, as they emerged as 3-2 winners.

South Korea and Oman both failed to reach the semi-finals, but hoped to end their campaigns on a high when they contested the fifth place play-off.

South Korea were able to secure a 3-1 win.