Can India Secure Victory in the Hockey Asia Cup Against China?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling start to the Men's Asia Cup, India overcame a goal deficit to secure a narrow 4-3 victory against China, thanks to a stellar hat-trick from captain Harmanpreet Singh. The match showcased India's resilience and skill, setting an exciting tone for their campaign. Can they maintain this momentum against Japan next?
Key Takeaways
- Harmanpreet Singh achieved a remarkable hat-trick.
- India showed resilience by overcoming an early deficit.
- Jugraj Singh contributed significantly with an important goal.
- The match highlighted India's attacking strategy and teamwork.
- The next challenge is against Japan.
Rajgir (Bihar), Aug 29 (NationPress) Captain Harmanpreet Singh delivered an outstanding performance, scoring a hat-trick as the Indian men’s hockey team clinched a hard-fought 4-3 victory against the lower-ranked China. Overcoming an early goal deficit, India kicked off their campaign in the Men’s Asia Cup with a crucial three points at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium on Friday.
For India, it was none other than the captain Harmanpreet Singh (20’, 33’, 47’) who showcased his skills with a remarkable hat-trick. Additionally, Jugraj Singh (18’) contributed to the scoreline, while China's goals came from Shihao Du (12’), Benhai Chen (35’), and Jiesheng Gao (41’).
From the initial push, the Indian team was aggressive, attacking relentlessly. Although China managed to endure the pressure and even survive a Penalty Corner, they quickly rallied to create several moves that posed a threat to India. The pressure culminated in a Penalty Corner for China, which Shihao Du converted (12’), putting them ahead. India needed to respond swiftly, intensifying their efforts to end the first quarter trailing 1-0.
As the second quarter began, India pressed forward, earning a Penalty Corner three minutes in, which Jugraj Singh (18’) converted to level the score at 1-1. Moments later, India won another Penalty Corner, and Harmanpreet Singh (20’) netted it, giving India a 2-1 lead. The hosts controlled the game under the afternoon sun, limiting China's scoring opportunities and ending the half with a 2-1 advantage.
Coming out strong after the break, Harmanpreet Singh (33’) extended India's lead to 3-1 with another goal from a Penalty Corner. However, China responded quickly, converting their third Penalty Corner through Benhai Chen (35’), narrowing the score to 3-2. The game became tense as both teams exchanged chances, but with 20 minutes remaining, China equalized through Jiesheng Gao (41’), leaving the score at 3-3.
In the final quarter, India began with determination, earning multiple Penalty Corners early on. Harmanpreet Singh (47’) completed his hat-trick, putting India ahead 4-3. The Indian team maintained control, keeping the ball dominantly in the opposing half, making it difficult for China as the match drew to a close. When the final whistle blew, India emerged victorious.
India's next challenge will be against Japan on Sunday.
Point of View
I believe this match reflects the spirit and determination of the Indian men's hockey team. Their ability to rally from behind demonstrates not only their skill but also their resilience. The victory sets a positive tone for their Asia Cup campaign, and we look forward to seeing how they perform in the upcoming matches against formidable opponents.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who scored the goals for India in the match against China?
Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored a hat-trick, and Jugraj Singh contributed one goal.
What was the final score of the match?
India won the match against China with a score of 4-3.
Where was the match held?
The match took place at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar.
Who are India's next opponents in the Asia Cup?
India will face Japan in their next match.
How did India come back from the deficit?
India mounted pressure on China, scoring four goals after initially trailing 0-1.
