Summary
In the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 final held in Hulunbuir, the Indian men’s hockey team defeated China 1-0, with Jugraj Singh scoring the decisive goal. This victory marks India’s fifth championship title in the tournament’s history. Harmanpreet Singh was the leading scorer for India in the tournament. Pakistan secured the bronze medal by defeating the Republic of Korea.

The Indian men’s hockey team claimed the title at the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 by defeating the host team, the People’s Republic of China, with a score of 1-0. The final took place on Tuesday at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir, marked by a high-intensity encounter wherein India faced a resilient Chinese side that effectively thwarted their advances for the majority of the game. The only goal of the match was scored by Jugraj Singh in the fourth quarter, securing India’s victory. As defending champions, India showcased their prowess and further solidified their status as the most successful team in the history of the tournament, having already secured five titles (2011, 2016, 2018 shared with Pakistan, 2023, and 2024). This match also represented India’s sixth appearance in the Asian Champions Trophy final across the eight editions conducted so far, while it was a first-time final for the Chinese team. In the opening quarter, India, ranked fifth by the FIH, displayed their dominance against China, ranked twenty-third. Harmanpreet Singh initiated efforts from penalty corners; however, the attempts were unsuccessful. Both Manpreet Singh and Nilakanta Sharma faced challenges in converting opportunities from close range due to heroic saves from China’s goalkeeper, Wang Weihao. Though India maintained control in the second quarter, they were unable to gain a lead, with Harmanpreet’s attempts resulting in a missed penalty corner as well as a shot that struck the post. The scoreboard remained unchanged at halftime. During the third quarter, China showcased increased work rate and determination, earning three penalty corners, yet India’s defense, anchored by first rusher Amit Rohidas, prevailed each time. In the closing nine minutes, Jugraj Singh capitalized on an opportunity set up by Captain Harmanpreet through a dynamic run, scoring his second tournament goal to break the deadlock. Despite a late offensive push from the hosts, India’s defense held firm. Harmanpreet notably finished the tournament as India’s leading scorer and secured the second position in overall scoring at the Asian Champions Trophy 2024, netting a total of seven goals (two field goals and five from penalty corners). The top scorer overall was Yang Jihun from the Republic of Korea, with nine goals. In the earlier match, Pakistan triumphed over the Republic of Korea with a score of 5-2, claiming the bronze medal.

The Asian Champions Trophy is an important tournament in the sport of hockey, showcasing top teams from the Asian continent. India has a storied history in this competition, frequently claiming titles and demonstrating its prowess in international hockey. The 2024 edition continued this tradition, culminating in a closely contested final against China, which was an historic event for the host nation as they made their first appearance in the tournament’s final. The match not only highlighted the tactical capabilities of the Indian team under the guidance of Coach Craig Fulton but also emphasized the rising stature of China in international hockey.

In conclusion, the Indian men’s hockey team’s victory over China in the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 final reinforces India’s dominance in the sport, as they secured their fifth title while also marking a significant achievement for a burgeoning Chinese team. The final match showcased competitive spirit, strategic play, and exemplary defense from India, particularly in key moments that led to their triumph. Captain Harmanpreet Singh’s performance significantly contributed to India’s success, affirming both individual and team excellence in the tournament.

Original Source: olympics.com

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