Indian men’s hockey win gold beating Malaysia 5-1 in Asian Games

IBNS-CMEDIA: India’s men’s hockey team on Saturday completed a dominant campaign at the ongoing Asian Games, defeating Malaysia 4-1 in the final to clinch the gold medal and add another medal to the country’s overall tally.

The victory saw India successfully defend the gold medal it won at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, continuing its strong record in the continental competition.

It was India’s fifth men’s hockey gold at the Asian Games, having previously won the title in 1966, 1998, 2014 and 2022.

India entered the final as defending champions and controlled large phases of the match against Malaysia.

The first breakthrough came in the 11th minute when Harmanpreet Singh found the back of the net to give India the lead.

Malaysia responded soon after, with Shelly Silverius scoring a field goal to level the score at 1-1.

The equaliser did little to dent India’s momentum as the Indian players continued to press forward and look for openings in the Malaysian defence.

Jugraj Singh restored India’s lead by converting a penalty corner in the 23rd minute.

India continued to apply pressure, repeatedly forcing the Malaysian defence to retreat while creating opportunities through quick attacks.

Vice-captain Hardik Singh then converted a penalty stroke in the 42nd minute to extend India’s advantage to 3-1.

Shilanand Lakra added another goal in the 54th minute, making it 4-1 and putting the result beyond doubt.

India maintained control until the final whistle to secure another Asian Games hockey gold.

The triumph came a day after India’s women’s hockey team defeated China 1-0 to win gold. The double triumph marked a significant achievement, with India’s men’s and women’s teams winning gold medals at the same edition of the Asian Games.

India’s victory in the men’s final also secured the team’s direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Pakistan won the bronze medal after defeating South Korea.