Commencing with high intensity, Germany extended their supremacy in the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup by defeating Spain 3–2 in a gripping shoot-out after the match ended 1–1.
Concluding the 13-day tournament jointly hosted by Chennai and Madurai, the final delivered a captivating finish.
Marking a significant achievement, the win handed Germany their eighth title from ten appearances in the championship match.
Opening the scoring in the 26th minute, Justus Warweg gave Germany the lead with a well-executed field goal. Responding swiftly, Spain equalised in the 33rd minute as Nicolas Mustaros produced an excellent strike to restore balance.
Struggling to convert, both teams failed to make the most of their penalty corners—Spain earning five in the first quarter, and Germany creating three opportunities—yet neither managed to alter the scoreline before full-time.
Shoot-Out Provides the Decisive Moment
Beginning shakily, Germany missed their first two attempts through Jonas von Gersum and Warweg. Matching their opponents’ nerves, Spain also faltered initially when Pere Amat failed to convert, though Pablo Roman soon gave his side a momentary lead.
Recovering steadily, Germany levelled through Benedikt Geyer before showing remarkable composure. Adding crucial goals, Alec von Schwerin and captain Ben Hasbach turned the tide, while goalkeeper Jasper Ditzer delivered outstanding saves.
Hoping for a late twist, Spain entrusted Andrés Medina with their final attempt, but Ditzer’s vital stop sealed the title for Germany and ignited jubilant celebrations.
Reflecting on the achievement, Germany’s coach Mirko Stenzel remarked, “Spain made it incredibly hard for us, and we weren’t at our best in possession or transitions. However, the boys believed they could win the shoot-out, and they proved it. This moment feels overwhelming—we’re celebrating this title rather than thinking about the previous seven.”
Earlier in the day, India earned a historic bronze medal by defeating Argentina 4–2, adding a new milestone to their previous haul of two gold and one silver medals.
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