India’s sub-junior men’s hockey team delivered a dominant performance to defeat arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1 in the final of the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship, clinching the gold medal and confirming their place at the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup.
The much-anticipated final lived up to expectations as India showcased disciplined defending, quick passing, and clinical finishing to outplay Pakistan in one of Asian hockey’s biggest rivalries.
India Take Early Control
India started aggressively and controlled possession from the opening whistle. Their attacking intent paid off in the 5th minute, when Romit Pal broke the deadlock with a composed finish to hand India a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
The Indian defense remained organized throughout the opening period, preventing Pakistan from creating meaningful opportunities.
Second-Half Domination
India stepped up the pace immediately after the break.
Captain Ketan Kushwaha doubled India’s advantage in the 12th minute, finishing a well-worked move.
Just a minute later, Shahrukh Ali added India’s third goal, putting Pakistan under immense pressure and giving India a commanding 3-0 lead.
Pakistan managed to reduce the deficit in the 16th minute through Muhammad Usman, but India’s defense held firm until the final whistle, sealing an impressive 3-1 victory.
India Finish on Top of Elite Pool
With the victory, India not only secured the Asian Championship title but also finished at the top of the Elite Pool standings, underlining their dominance throughout the tournament.
Historic World Cup Qualification
By reaching the championship final, both India and Pakistan qualified for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup, marking a historic achievement for both nations.
India will now enter the global tournament with strong momentum after an unbeaten campaign in the Asian Championship.
Indian Women’s Team Wins Silver
India also enjoyed success in the women’s competition.
The Indian sub-junior women’s team fought hard in the final against China but finished with the silver medal, ensuring that both Indian teams returned home with podium finishes.
Hockey India Announces Cash Rewards
To recognize the outstanding performances, Hockey India announced attractive cash rewards.
- Every player of the gold medal-winning men’s team will receive ₹2 lakh.
- Every member of the men’s support staff will receive ₹1 lakh.
- Every player of the silver medal-winning women’s team will receive ₹1 lakh.
- Every member of the women’s support staff will receive ₹50,000.
The announcement reflects Hockey India’s continued commitment to encouraging young talent and strengthening India’s future in international hockey.
Match Summary
| Result | India 3-1 Pakistan |
|---|---|
| Tournament | FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship |
| Gold Medal | India |
| Goals (India) | Romit Pal (5′), Ketan Kushwaha (12′), Shahrukh Ali (13′) |
| Goal (Pakistan) | Muhammad Usman (16′) |
| World Cup Qualification | India & Pakistan |
| Women’s Result | India won Silver |
Conclusion
India’s commanding victory over Pakistan in the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship highlights the country’s rising generation of hockey stars. With the Asian title secured, a historic World Cup qualification confirmed, and both men’s and women’s teams returning with medals, Indian hockey has every reason to celebrate a promising future.