How Did the Sultan of Johor Cup Unfold? India Triumphs Over New Zealand 4-2

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India wins 4-2 against New Zealand in the Sultan of Johor Cup.
- Arshdeep Singh scored the opening goal.
- India's defense was critical in holding off New Zealand's attacks.
- Next, India faces arch-rivals Pakistan on October 14.
- The team is focused on maintaining their unbeaten streak.
Johor (Malaysia), Oct 12 (NationPress) The Indian junior men's hockey team continues to display their remarkable skills, maintaining an unbeaten streak by achieving a solid 4-2 victory over New Zealand in the 2025 Sultan of Johor Cup on Sunday.
Arshdeep Singh (2’), PB Sunil (15’), Araijeet Singh Hundal (26’), and Roman Kumur (47’) contributed goals for the Indian side, while Gus Nelson (41’) and Aidan Max (52’) netted for New Zealand.
Following a thrilling opening match where they triumphed over Great Britain 3-2, India carried their winning momentum into this match against New Zealand.
India's opening goal came swiftly in the second minute of the first quarter, with Arshdeep Singh capitalizing on a defensive error by New Zealand. After a quick run in the circle from the right side, he took a shot on goal that was saved, but he was quick to convert the rebound.
In the closing minute of the first quarter, India doubled their lead when Sunil PB scored from a well-executed penalty corner variation, with drag-flicker and captain Rohit setting up the opportunity. Despite previous attempts being blocked, Sunil's low shot found the net.
Leading 2-0, India maintained strong combinations in the second quarter, producing effective attacking chances. Araijeet Singh Hundal found himself unmarked in the circle and scored in the 26th minute, enhancing India's position.
New Zealand managed to narrow the margin in the third quarter with a goal from Gus Nelson in the 41st minute, making it 3-1, but Roman Kumur's goal through a penalty corner in the 47th minute restored India's cushion to 4-1.
Aidan Max scored for New Zealand in the 52nd minute, leading to a tense final few minutes as New Zealand pressed for more goals, but India's resilient defense held firm.
The performance met the expectations of their coach, PR Sreejesh, who emphasized the need for a stronger defensive display in a pre-match interview.
Next, India is set to face their arch-rival Pakistan on October 14.