India's Narrow Victory Over China in Asia Cup: Harmanpreet's Hat-Trick Steals the Show

In a gripping Asia Cup opener, India triumphed over China with a narrow 4-3 victory, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh's impressive hat-trick. Despite the win, India's performance raised eyebrows as they allowed China to remain competitive throughout the match. The game featured missed opportunities and crucial penalty corners, showcasing both teams' strengths and weaknesses. With Japan's dominant 7-0 win over Kazakhstan in the same pool, the tournament is heating up. Read on for a detailed analysis of the match and its implications for India's campaign.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 29, 2025, 18:39 IST

Match Overview

Rajgir (Bihar): In a thrilling Asia Cup opener, India edged out China with a 4-3 victory, thanks to a remarkable hat-trick from captain Harmanpreet Singh. Despite the win, India's performance raised concerns as they struggled against a lower-ranked opponent.

Harmanpreet scored in the 20th, 33rd, and 47th minutes, all from penalty corners, while Jugraj Singh added another goal in the 18th minute. China's goals came from Shihao Du (12th), Benhai Chen (35th), and Jiesheng Gao (41st).

Although India secured the win, they allowed China to stay competitive throughout the match, missing several opportunities and converting only four of their eleven penalty corners.

The match began with India on the offensive, creating an early chance that was saved by Chinese goalkeeper Weihao Yang. India quickly earned their first penalty corner, but a goal by Mandeep Singh was disallowed after a referral.

China took the lead with their first penalty corner in the 12th minute, but India equalized in the second quarter with Jugraj's successful conversion. Harmanpreet then scored from another penalty corner, giving India a brief lead.

Despite India’s pressure, they missed additional chances, including a penalty stroke by Harmanpreet that hit the post. This miss proved costly as China equalized shortly after.

In a dramatic finish, India secured three consecutive penalty corners, with Harmanpreet scoring the decisive goal. The match concluded with India holding on to their lead.

In the other Pool A match, Japan dominated Kazakhstan with a 7-0 victory, showcasing their strength in the tournament.

The match was attended by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who honored Major Dhyanchand on National Sports Day before the game.