The Indian men’s hockey team did not perform at their peak but succeeded in winning their Asia Cup opener against China with a score of 4-3 in Rajgir, Bihar, on Friday.
All seven goals in the match were scored from penalty corners, with India captain Harmanpreet Singh netting a hat trick and Jugraj Singh contributing to the goal tally.
India was anticipated to dominate the Chinese team and was hopeful for a straightforward victory; however, their opponents had different plans. Despite controlling the ball, it was China that took the lead from a penalty corner, with Du Shihao scoring in the 12th minute.
In the subsequent quarter, India’s control bore fruit as Jugraj Singh capitalized on his opportunity with a powerful dragflick, leveling the score at 1-1 in the 18th minute. Just two minutes later, Harmanpreet put India ahead 2-1, and things appeared promising for the home side.
Immediately following the half-time break, the Indian captain found the net again from a penalty corner, extending the lead to 3-1 in the 33rd minute. However, China began to apply pressure on India, showcasing their best hockey and drawing fouls from India’s defense. In the 35th minute, Chen Benhai scored to narrow the gap, and six minutes later, Goa Jiesheng equalized at 3-3 from another penalty corner.
Amidst this action, Mandeep Singh was fouled inside the D by the Chinese goalkeeper, granting Harmanpreet a chance from a stroke when the score was 3-2 in favor of India.
The decisive goal was scored in the 47th minute when Harmanpreet’s powerful dragflick found the corner of the net. India lost Jarmanpreet Singh to a five-minute yellow card and faced significant pressure from China in the final quarter. Ultimately, they managed to maintain their lead for a narrow victory.
India will return to the field on Saturday for their match against Japan, scheduled to commence at 3 PM IST.