India's junior men's hockey team maintained their continental dominance on Thursday, defeating arch-rival Pakistan 2-1 to win the Asia Cup for the fourth time. Angad Bir Singh (13th minute) and Araijeet Singh Hundal (20th minute) scored for India, while Abdul Basharat (37th minute) scored for Pakistan. India had won the tournament three times previously, in 2004, 2008, and 2015. Pakistan has won the tournament three times: in 1987, 1992, and 1996.
Recognising the team's efforts and unbeaten record in the prestigious tournament that saw the country qualify for the FIH Men's Junior World Cup in Malaysia, the Hockey India Executive Board announced a cash award of Rs 2 lakh for each player and Rs 1 lakh for each support staff member.
Both teams looked dangerous from the start in front of a near-capacity crowd at the Salalah Sports Complex, but Angad Bir Singh's strike in the 13th minute helped India get on the board. Araijeet Singh Hundal, India's top scorer in the Men's Junior Asia Cup hockey 2023, doubled the lead five minutes into the second quarter.
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Despite Pakistan's relentless pursuit of a comeback, India had more meaningful possession. Indian custodian HS Mohith made a spectacular save to keep India ahead going into the second half. Pakistan kept pressing, but India's defense was up to the task. However, in the 38th minute, Abdul Shahid's desperate crossfield shot was deflected by Basharat Ali and made it 2-1.
Pakistan's persistent attacks compelled India to commit numbers to defense in the fourth quarter. Despite earning multiple penalty corners and dominating possession, Pakistan was unable to breach India's defensive wall, which was led by custodian HS Mohith, and India went on to win the trophy.
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Source : Indiatoday
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