Is it a proud moment for Indian hockey? PM Modi celebrates Asia Cup victory!

New Delhi, Sep 7 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Indian men's hockey team for their remarkable victory in the Asia Cup, where they triumphed over the defending champions South Korea with a score of 4-1 during the final match held in Rajgir on Sunday.

This win not only elevates the Indian men's team to the pinnacle of hockey in Asia but also ensures their direct entry into the FIH World Cup next year, hosted by Belgium and Netherlands. This achievement marks India's fourth title in the Asia Cup, adding to their previous victories in 2003, 2007, and 2017. Notably, South Korea continues to be the most decorated team in the history of this competition, with five titles won in 1994, 1999, 2009, 2013, and 2022.

In a post on X, he remarked, "Kudos to our Men’s Hockey Team for their outstanding performance in the Asia Cup 2025 held in Rajgir, Bihar. This victory is particularly significant as they have outperformed the reigning champions, South Korea!"

"This is indeed a proud moment for Indian hockey and the broader realm of Indian sports. May our athletes continue to achieve greater heights and bring further glory to our nation!"

PM Modi also praised the efforts of the Bihar government and its citizens for successfully hosting such an impressive tournament in Rajgir.

"I would like to commend the Government and the people of Bihar for their contributions, which made Rajgir a vibrant sporting hub and allowed us to host this spectacular tournament," he added.

India dominated the final match from the outset, with Sukhjeet Singh scoring the first goal. The team maintained their momentum throughout the game, ultimately enhancing their lead to four goals through strikes from Dilpreet Singh (28', 45') and Amit Rohidas (50'), before Korea’s Son Dain netted a consolation goal in the final quarter.

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also conveyed his congratulations to the victorious team. "Incredible performance! Heartfelt congratulations to the Indian Hockey Team for their 4-1 victory over Korea in the final of the Asia Cup Hockey held in Rajgir, Bihar! You have all set a benchmark for excellence throughout the tournament; warmest regards to everyone," he wrote on X.

Congress General Secretary and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra described the victory as an "immensely joyous and proud moment for our entire nation."

"India has made history by claiming the Hockey Asia Cup for the fourth time. Furthermore, India has qualified for the World Cup. This is a truly joyous and proud moment for the entire country. Warmest congratulations and best wishes to Team India," she expressed on X.

India maintained an unbeaten streak in the tournament, securing five wins and a draw. Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Singh, the team excelled in the pool stage with three consecutive victories. In the Super 4s, they continued to dominate with decisive wins over Malaysia (4-1) and China (7-0), and a 2-2 draw against South Korea.