In a thrilling encounter, India edged past hosts China 1-0 in the final of the Asian Champions Trophy 2024, securing their fifth title and further solidifying their dominance in the tournament. The match, played at the Moqi Training Base in Hulunbuir City, China, saw both teams locked in a gritty battle, with India struggling to break down a disciplined Chinese defense for most of the game.
Despite India’s status as defending champions and their impressive form throughout the tournament—scoring 25 goals and conceding only five—the final proved to be a much tougher challenge. China, making their first-ever appearance in the final, were resolute, frustrating the Indian attackers for the first three quarters.
Key Highlights from the Match- Asian Champions Trophy:
- First Half: India began the game on the front foot, controlling possession and creating several scoring opportunities. However, China’s defense, led by an outstanding performance from goalkeeper Wang, kept India at bay. Harmanpreet Singh, India’s captain and key player, came closest to scoring in the second quarter when his penalty corner drag flick hit the post. Despite multiple penalty corners and field attempts, India went into halftime without a breakthrough, with the score locked at 0-0.
- Second Half: China grew into the game in the third quarter, even earning a few penalty corners of their own, but India’s defense, led by goalkeeper Krishna Pathak, held firm. The Chinese team began to find more space but lacked the finishing touch to convert their opportunities.
- Jugraj Singh’s Decisive Goal: The deadlock was finally broken in the 51st minute when Indian defender Jugraj Singh scored a rare field goal. Positioned perfectly in the circle, Jugraj capitalized on a moment of confusion in the Chinese defense, slotting the ball into the net to give India a crucial lead. This goal shifted the momentum firmly in India’s favor.
- Final Quarter Drama: With less than 10 minutes left, China took a drastic step, pulling their goalkeeper and going all out with field players in a bid to equalize. India, however, remained resolute, defending with all their might. Harmanpreet Singh and his team managed to thwart China’s last-ditch efforts, maintaining their narrow lead until the final whistle.
Significance of the Victory:
This win marks India’s fifth Asian Champions Trophy title, extending their record in the competition. It was a tense and hard-fought victory, as India had to overcome not only China’s defensive prowess but also the pressure of playing against a home crowd. The result also reinforces India’s status as a hockey powerhouse, especially as they build momentum ahead of the Paris Olympics.
Other Highlights:
- Earlier in the day, Pakistan secured third place by defeating Korea 5-2, rounding off a strong performance in the six-team tournament.
India’s triumph in the 2024 Asian Champions Trophy further enhances their growing reputation in international hockey, providing a morale boost for the team as they continue their preparations for future global competitions.
