Indian Hockey team creates history, secures record-breaking fifth Asian Champions trophy title

PTC News Desk: The Indian hockey team made history on Tuesday, September 17, by securing their fifth Asian Champions Trophy title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over China at the Moqi Training Base. Jugraj Singh scored the decisive goal in the fourth quarter, assisted by captain Harmanpreet Singh, to clinch the win. This victory solidifies India’s dominance in the tournament, having previously won the title in 2011, 2016, and 2023.

India is now the most successful team in the history of the Asian Champions Trophy, with five titles. Pakistan, the second-most successful team, has won the trophy three times, while South Korea claimed it once, in 2021. China’s appearance in this year’s final was historic, marking their best-ever finish in the tournament.

India’s Impressive Title Run

India, the Paris Olympics bronze medalists, had an undefeated run in the 2024 edition, winning all seven matches. They began their campaign with a 3-0 win over China in the group stage, followed by a dominant 5-1 victory against Japan. India continued their impressive form, thrashing Malaysia 8-1 and overcoming South Korea 3-1. In their final group stage match, India edged out arch-rivals Pakistan 2-1 in a tense encounter.

In the semi-finals, India faced 2021 champions South Korea and comfortably won 4-1, setting up the final against China. The back-to-back title wins in 2023 and 2024 mark the first time India has won consecutive editions of the tournament. Last year, India triumphed on home soil by defeating Malaysia 4-3 in the final held in Chennai.

Standout Performances and Records

Harmanpreet Singh, India’s captain, finished the tournament as the second-highest goal scorer with seven goals, just behind South Korea’s Yang Ji-Hun. India’s victory over China in the final capped off a flawless tournament performance, further cementing their legacy in Asian hockey.

Meanwhile, Pakistan secured third place in the competition with a 5-2 victory over South Korea, after losing to China in the semi-final via a penalty shootout.

This victory further enhances India’s reputation as a hockey powerhouse and sets the stage for future success as they look ahead to upcoming international tournaments.