India Crowned Asia Cup Hockey Champions After 8-Year Wait

 



India ended their eight-year wait for an Asia Cup hockey title with a resounding 4–1 win over South Korea in the final at Rajgir on Sunday, September 7. The victory not only handed India their fourth Asia Cup crown but also secured them a direct spot in the upcoming World Cup.

Lightning Start in the Final

The tone was set almost immediately as Sukhjeet Singh struck in the very first minute, finishing off a brilliant dribble and pass from captain Harmanpreet Singh. The early lead put India on the front foot and showed clear intent from the hosts. Unlike their nervy performance against Korea earlier in the tournament, India looked confident, calm, and composed right from the first quarter.

Dilpreet at the Double

South Korea attempted to wrestle back control by crowding Indian players with triple-marking, but India’s stick skills and patience in possession helped them weather the storm. After a few missed opportunities and a saved penalty stroke, India doubled their lead in the 28th minute. A long ball from Harmanpreet set up Sanjay, who laid it off for Dilpreet Singh to slot home his first goal. Dilpreet later struck again in the 44th minute, finishing off a fast, flowing move to make it 3–0.

Rohidas Seals It, Korea Pulls One Back

India continued to dominate in the final quarter. A penalty corner in the 50th minute was converted by Amit Rohidas, stretching the lead to 4–0. Korea briefly threatened a comeback when Son Dain scored from a variation at a penalty corner in the 51st minute, but the Indian defence, marshalled by goalkeeper Krishan Pathak, held firm under late pressure.

Unbeaten Champions

This triumph was India’s first Asia Cup title since 2017 in Dhaka, when they beat Malaysia in the final. The 2025 campaign was particularly special as the hosts remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, displaying maturity and tactical discipline.

Other Results

Earlier in the day, Malaysia claimed third place with a 4–1 win over China, while Japan secured fifth spot by defeating Bangladesh.

For India, the final whistle sparked jubilation—an emphatic win, a long wait finally over, and another feather in their proud hockey history.



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