How Did India Dominate Kazakhstan 15-0 in the Hockey Asia Cup?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India's dominance in the match reflects their strong performance.
- Three players achieved hat-tricks, showcasing individual brilliance.
- India secured the top position in Pool A, qualifying for the Super 4s.
- Effective teamwork and strategy were evident throughout the match.
- Kazakhstan struggled to keep up with India's relentless attacks.
Rajgir (Bihar), Sep 1 (NationPress) - The Indian men’s hockey team showcased an extraordinary performance in their concluding Pool A match at the Men’s Asia Cup 2025 held in Rajgir, Bihar. Facing off against Kazakhstan, India triumphed with an incredible score of 15-0, with three players achieving hat-tricks at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium.
Players Abhishek (5’, 8’, 20’, 59’), Sukhjeet Singh (15’, 32’, 38’), and Jugraj Singh (24’, 31’, 47’) led the scoring frenzy, while Captain Harmanpreet Singh (26’), Amit Rohidas (29’), Sanjay (54’), and Dilpreet Singh (55’) also contributed to the scoreline. Having already secured a place in the Super 4s, India topped the Pool A standings with nine points from three matches.
True to form, the Indian team started aggressively. Although Kazakhstan initially absorbed the pressure, Abhishek (5’) broke through with a powerful shot from the circle, making it 1-0. Kazakhstan attempted some counterattacks, but Abhishek (8’) swiftly doubled the lead. In a crucial moment just before the first quarter ended, Captain Harmanpreet Singh’s Penalty Corner shot was blocked. Shortly after, Abhishek assisted Sukhjeet Singh (15’), who tapped it in, ending the first quarter at 3-0.
The dominance continued into the second quarter, with India controlling possession. Captain Harmanpreet Singh was denied by the goalpost during a Penalty Corner. However, moments later, Abhishek (20’) displayed finesse by finishing his hat-trick.
Kazakhstan earned a Penalty Corner but couldn't penetrate India's defense. Just before halftime, Jugraj Singh (24’) struck a powerful shot from a Penalty Corner into the top corner, followed by Captain Harmanpreet Singh (26’) and Amit Rohidas (29’) also scoring from Penalty Corners. At halftime, India led 7-0.
The third quarter began with India earning a penalty stroke, and Jugraj Singh (31’) converted it confidently. Mandeep Singh’s impressive run set up Rajinder Singh (32’) for his first goal, followed by Sukhjeet Singh (32’) making it 10-0. Kazakhstan struggled to find an opening, and midway through the quarter, Sukhjeet Singh (38’) extended the lead to 11-0. Despite multiple attacks, no further goals were scored before the quarter ended.
As the final quarter unfolded, India maintained their momentum, scoring again within minutes. Jugraj Singh (47’) netted another penalty stroke, while Kazakhstan attempted to regroup. However, with just over five minutes left, Sanjay (54’) scored, followed quickly by Dilpreet Singh (55’) making it 14-0. In the closing moments, Abhishek (59’) sealed the significant victory with his fourth goal.
Other results:
Korea defeated Bangladesh 5-1.
Malaysia triumphed over Chinese Taipei 15-0.
China and Japan ended in a 2-2 draw.