Pakistani cueists Asjad Iqbal and Awais Munir have continued their impressive run at the IBSF Mongolia World Cup Men 2024, advancing to the quarter-finals in Ulaanbaatar after dominant performances in the Round of 16.
Asjad Iqbal’s comeback victory
Iqbal displayed remarkable resilience in his match against Hong Kong’s Chang Yu Kiu. Despite losing the first frame 08-89, Iqbal mounted a strong comeback, winning the next four frames 74-62(62), 71-12, 57-46, and 71(68)-24 to secure a 4-1 victory. His strategic play and precision saw him progress smoothly to the quarter-finals.
Meanwhile, Awais Munir also advanced to the next stage after a 4-2 victory against Chau Hon Man, also of Hong Kong. Munir faced an early setback, losing the first frame 44-81.
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However, he quickly recovered, winning the second frame 80-08. Although he dropped the third frame 17-65, Munir dominated the final three frames with scores of 88-42, 85(79)-05, and 66-34, demonstrating his tenacity and skill.
Iqbal is set to face China’s Gao Yang, while Munir will compete against Iran’s Ali Gharahgozlou in the quarter-finals, scheduled for tomorrow at 10am local time.
Earlier success in round of 16
Both Pakistani players entered the Round of 16 with an undefeated record. On Sunday, Munir defeated Iran’s Siyavosh Mozayani 3-1, winning with frame scores of 9-63, 78-34, 59-50, and 73-13. Meanwhile, Iqbal secured his spot with a 3-1 victory over Qatar’s Ali Alobaidli, posting scores of 59-36, 26-63, 58-19, and 70-58.