The Indian men’s hockey team scripted an incredible comeback from being 3-1 down at half-time to triumph 4-3 in the Asian Champions Trophy 2023 final against Malaysia at the Major Radhakrishnan Stadium in Chennai on Saturday evening.
Jugraj Singh (9’), Harmanpreet Singh (45’), Gurjant Singh (45’) and Akashdeep Singh (56’) were on target for the Men in Blue while Abu Kamal Azrai (14’), Razie Rahim (18’), Aminudin Muhamad (28’) scored the goals for the opposition.
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However, it was India who took the lead through a penalty corner converted by Juugraj after fiery winger Karthi Selvam earned the set-piece.
Malaysia regrouped and started raiding Indian defence with intent and purpose and Azrai brought back his nation on level terms after flicking over Krishan Pathak's head to score the leveller.
Although India were calling the shots in the match, it was Malaysia who took the opportunities to score. They earned four successive penalty corners and converted two of them to gain a healthy two-goal advantage before half-time. Midway through the match India had 56 per cent possession and nine circle penetrations compared to just seven of Malaysia. But still, they found themselves trailing much to the dismay of coach Craig Fulton.
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In the third quarter of the match, India displayed a remarkable sense of urgency as they pursued victory. Despite Malaysia's efforts to withstand the pressure and deny India any significant opportunities, the situation changed dramatically.
Sukhjeet Singh's exceptional run drew a foul from a Malaysian defender inside the circle, leading to a penalty stroke for India. Captain Harmanpreet Singh, who emerged as the tournament's top scorer with nine goals, confidently converted the stroke into a goal, to reduce the deficit.
With only 30 seconds remaining, Harmanpreet Singh played a crucial role once again. He initiated India's attack, passing the ball to Karthi Selvam inside the circle. Karthi Selvam collaborated with Sukhjeet Singh, resulting in Gurjant Singh tapping the ball into the net, equalizing the score.
Malaysia came out of their shell in the fourth quarter but it was India that turned the tide, with Akashdeep Singh scoring the winning goal in the 56th minute.
What did Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey say after the win?
“As a former hockey player, I truly believe that a victory in hockey is more than just a win on the field; it is a testament to the dedication and teamwork that fuels our passion. As we commemorate the Indian Men's Hockey Team's magnificent victory at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Chennai 2023, Hockey India takes great pride in honouring their prowess with a cash award of Rs 3.00 lakh for players and Rs 1.50 lakh to the Support Staff, whose tireless efforts contribute to this success," he stated.
When will the Indian Men's hockey team play next?
The victory sets the stage for India's upcoming challenge in the Asian Games 2023, scheduled to commence on September 23 in Hangzhou, China.