The Indian Men’s Hockey Team kicked off their Hero Men’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign in Rajgir, Bihar, with a nail-biting 4-3 victory over China at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium on Friday.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh was the star of the show, scoring a brilliant hat-trick (20′, 33′, 47′), while Jugraj Singh (18′) also found the back of the net. For China, Shihao Du (12′), Benhai Chen (35′), and Jiesheng Gao (41′) were the goal scorers.
A Fast Start and Early Setback
India came out with attacking intent from the first pushback, applying constant pressure on the Chinese defence. However, China absorbed the early surge and struck first when Shihao Du converted a penalty corner in the 12th minute, giving his side a 1-0 lead at the end of the first quarter.
India Hit Back Strongly
The hosts responded in style in the second quarter. Jugraj Singh levelled the score in the 18th minute with a powerful drag flick from a penalty corner. Just two minutes later, skipper Harmanpreet Singh fired home to make it 2-1, putting India in control at halftime.
End-to-End Third Quarter
India continued their dominance after the break as Harmanpreet Singh scored his second goal (33′) to extend the lead to 3-1. But China showed great resilience, with Benhai Chen (35′) pulling one back, followed by Jiesheng Gao (41′) equalising soon after. The third quarter ended 3-3, setting up a tense finale.
Harmanpreet Completes Hat-Trick, India Clinch Win
In the final quarter, India pressed hard and earned another penalty corner. Harmanpreet Singh converted it (47′) to complete his hat-trick and restore India’s lead. The home team then defended resolutely, denying China any chance to equalise again.
With the final hooter, India sealed a thrilling 4-3 victory, much to the delight of the home crowd.
What’s Next?
India will face Japan in their second group-stage match on Sunday, aiming to continue their winning momentum in the tournament.
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