India Clinches Asia Cup Hockey Title 2025 – Qualifies for 2026 FIH World Cup
The Indian men’s hockey team created history on September 7, 2025, by convincingly defeating defending champions South Korea 4-1 in the Asia Cup final. With this memorable win at Rajgir’s packed Hockey Stadium, India not only lifted its fourth continental trophy but also secured a direct berth at the 2026 FIH World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final Score | Goalscorers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 4 | Sukhjeet Singh (1′), Dilpreet Singh (28′, 45′), Amit Rohidas (50′) |
| South Korea | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | Son Dain (51′) |
First-Half Domination: Early Breakthrough
India set the tone of the match right from the opening whistle, with forward Sukhjeet Singh giving the home crowd reason to celebrate by scoring in the opening seconds. The early strike rattled Korea and allowed India to dictate the tempo from the outset.
Star Performers: Dilpreet’s Brilliance
The second quarter saw Dilpreet Singh converting twice, displaying clinical finishing and sharp positioning. His brace all but settled the contest, establishing India’s ascendancy over the Korean defense. The robust midfield and well-organized backline further restricted Korea’s chances, ensuring India entered the latter stages with a dominant lead.
Final Push: Consolidation and Defense
In the fourth quarter, veteran Amit Rohidas added to the tally with a goal from a penalty corner, pushing the lead to 4-0. Although Korea managed a consolation goal in the dying minutes, India’s defense, led by goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, stood resolute to close out the game in style.
Significance of the Victory
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Fourth Asia Cup Title: This triumph marks India’s fourth Asia Cup win, adding to their victories in 2003, 2007, and 2017.
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Direct 2026 World Cup Spot: With this win, India earns a direct ticket to the FIH World Cup in 2026, reinforcing their stature as an Asian powerhouse.
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Player Highlights: Dilpreet Singh, whose double strike proved decisive, was named Player of the Match. Sukhjeet Singh’s opening goal and Rohidas’s defensive leadership also stood out.
Looking Ahead
Celebrations erupted as the Indian team, led by coach Craig Fulton, thanked the roaring home crowd. As continental champions and World Cup qualifiers, the squad will now focus on building momentum toward the 2026 global event, where the tricolor will hope to add another feather to its decorated cap.
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