In an impressive display, Dilpreet Singh scored twice to lead India to a 4-1 triumph over reigning champions South Korea, securing the men’s Asia Cup hockey championship for the first time in eight years. This victory earned India a spot in the upcoming FIH World Cup.
With four Asia Cup wins, India is now the second-most successful team in the tournament, trailing only the five-time champions, Korea.
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India’s last title came in 2017 in Dhaka, with prior victories in 2003 (Kuala Lumpur) and 2007 (Chennai). This latest win grants India direct entry into the next year’s FIH World Cup, co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands from August 14 to 30.
In front of an enthusiastic crowd at the Rajgir Sports Complex, goals were scored by Dilpreet Singh (28th, 45th minutes), Sukhjeet Singh (1st), and Amit Rohidas (50th from a penalty corner). Korea managed a single goal by Dain Son in the 51st minute.
From the onset, India showcased dominance, demonstrating excellent coordination in their defense, midfield, and attack, consistently invading Korea’s defensive circle. Korea adopted a defensive stance, which proved ineffective against the aggressive Indian side, creating limited opportunities in the first two quarters.
The scoring began within the first 30 seconds, with Sukhjeet Singh capitalizing on Harmanpreet Singh’s skillful play from the left flank, delivering a reverse-hit goal into the top-left corner.
Despite several offensive efforts, including a penalty stroke attempt by Jugraj Singh, India’s relentless pressure was evident. Dilpreet Singh extended the lead following a precise pass from Sanjay, facilitated by Harmanpreet’s aerial delivery.
India repelled Korea’s attempts, including back-to-back penalty corners in the 40th minute and secured a significant 3-0 lead by the third quarter, thanks to another Dilpreet strike with effective teamwork.
A further penalty corner converted by Amit Rohidas accentuated India’s lead to 4-0, while Korea’s consolation goal from a penalty corner came a minute later. Despite earning another penalty corner in the 56th minute, Korea couldn’t overcome India’s sturdy defense.
Malaysia Clinches Third Place
World No. 12 Malaysia defeated China 3-0 in a classification match to secure third place, controlling the game and creating numerous opportunities against the defensively-oriented Chinese team.
Akhimullah Anuar was pivotal for Malaysia, scoring twice and topping the tournament’s scoring chart with 12 goals, while Norsyafiq Sumantri and Syed Cholan added to the tally. Jiesheng Gao scored China’s only goal in the 54th minute.
Japan Overcomes Bangladesh for Fifth Place
Japan decisively beat Bangladesh 6-1 to claim fifth place. Ryosuke Shinohara notched a hat-trick, coupled with goals from Koji Yamasaki, Ken Nagayoshi, and Seren Tanaka. Amirul Islam was the sole scorer for Bangladesh.