India lifted their fourth Hockey Men’s Asia Cup crown with a commanding 4-1 victory over South Korea in the final on Sunday. The triumph ended an eight-year wait for a continental title and confirmed India’s qualification for next year’s World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Dominant Final Performance
Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, and Amit Rohidas scored for the hosts, with Dilpreet netting twice. Korea’s Son Dain struck a consolation goal in the last quarter, but it failed to dent India’s dominance.
Jugraj Singh came close to extending the margin, but his penalty stroke was saved.
The win capped off a confident campaign. India had demolished China 7-0 in the Super 4s, with Abhishek, Shilanand Lakra, Mandeep Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Dilpreet Singh, and Sukhjeet Singh all scoring. That result underlined India’s attacking strength.
Unbeaten Run to the Title
India remained unbeaten throughout the Hockey Men’s Asia Cup, registering five wins and a draw. Led by Harmanpreet Singh, the team swept through the pool stage with three straight victories.
In the Super 4s, they overpowered Malaysia 4-1, routed China 7-0, and drew 2-2 with South Korea. This latest success adds to India’s Asia Cup titles in 2003, 2007, and 2017.
South Korea remain the most decorated side in the competition with five championships, won in 1994, 1999, 2009, 2013, and 2022.
With a World Cup berth secured, India will now aim for a medal in Belgium and the Netherlands in 2026. Since their 1975 World Cup triumph, India’s best finishes have been fifth place in 1982 and 1994.
The team has competed in all 15 editions, including the most recent one in 2023 at Bhubaneswar and Rourkela.
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