Boys Win: India’s Asia Cup Triumph

Defending champions India triumphed over arch-rivals Pakistan to clinch the Junior Hockey Asia Cup for the fifth time. Dragflicker Arijit Hundal was the star of the match, scoring four goals as India defeated Pakistan 5-3 in the final on Wednesday. This victory adds to India's previous titles won in 2004, 2008, 2015, and 2023, marking a successful campaign where the team did not lose a single match.

Arijit scored his goals in the 4th, 18th, 47th, and 54th minutes, while Dilraj Singh contributed one goal in the 19th minute. For Pakistan, Sufian Khan scored twice (30th and 39th minutes), and Hanan Shahid scored the opening goal in the 3rd minute. Shahid shocked India with a field goal early in the game, but less than a minute later, Arijit leveled the score by converting a penalty corner.

India played with aggression in the second quarter, forcing Pakistan to defend intensely. Arijit gave India a 2-1 lead with another goal, and shortly after, Dilraj Singh showcased his skill with a field goal. However, just 11 seconds before the quarter ended, Sufian converted a penalty corner, putting Pakistan ahead 3-2. In the opening minute of the third quarter, Sufian scored again from a penalty corner, equalizing the score at 3-3.

In the final quarter, Arijit stepped up, scoring twice to secure India’s victory. He received a cross and effortlessly slotted it into the net, putting India ahead 4-3. Arijit then completed his remarkable performance by converting another penalty corner, sealing the title for India.