The Indian men’s hockey team concluded their league campaign at the
Despite missing key personnel, including Hardik Singh who was rested and Abhishek who remained sidelined following an ankle injury, India’s depth was on full display. The side dominated possession with 60 percent of the ball and created 19 scoring opportunities compared to just four from their opponents, effectively silencing any concerns regarding their intensity during back-to-back fixtures.
A Clinical Performance Across the Field
The goal-scoring spree began in the eighth minute when Dilpreet Singh found the net with a precise reverse hit. The momentum remained firmly with the hosts, as Jugraj Singh and captain Harmanpreet Singh added goals from penalty corners to establish a commanding lead by the end of the first quarter. The onslaught continued after the break, with Shilanand Lakra, Sukhjeet Singh, and Sanjay all finding the target in quick succession during the third quarter.
Dilpreet Singh secured his brace in the 40th minute, while Angad Bir Singh provided a spectacular finish to the match in the final seconds. His solo effort, which saw him sprint the length of the pitch before slotting the ball home, capped off a comprehensive team performance. While Korea managed to earn four penalty corners during the second quarter, the Indian defensive unit remained resolute, ensuring a clean sheet.
Semifinal Lineup Confirmed
The result confirms that India and Korea will meet again in the semifinals, scheduled for the following day. In the other half of the draw, Japan secured their spot in the final four after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Malaysia. Despite falling behind to an early goal from Abu Kamal Azrai, Japan responded through a brace from Kentaro Fukuda to overcome their opponents.
In other league action, China and Bangladesh played out a 1-1 draw, with Chen Benhai scoring for China and Ashraful Islam converting a penalty stroke for Bangladesh. As the tournament shifts focus toward the decisive knockout matches, India enters the semifinals as the team to beat following their dominant display in the league phase.
