India Clinches Sixth Junior Men's Asia Cup Title with 4-1 Victory Over South Korea

India Triumphs in Junior Men's Asia Cup

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Indian men's hockey team for their impressive 4-1 victory against South Korea in the Junior Men's Asia Cup final held in China.

The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team emerged victorious in the 2026 Men’s Junior Asia Cup, defeating Korea 4-1 in the championship match in Moqi, China. This win marks India's sixth title in this tournament, successfully defending their championship status.

In a post on X, PM Modi expressed his congratulations, stating, "Congratulations to our Junior Men’s Hockey Team on winning the Asia Cup with an emphatic 4-1 win in the final. It is indeed a remarkable achievement. This feat reflects the immense talent of our young players. Best wishes to the entire team!"

Entering the tournament as five-time champions, India showcased a dominant performance in the final, adding another significant chapter to their legacy in the competition. Their previous victories were recorded in 2004, 2008, 2015, 2023, and 2024, solidifying their status as the most successful team in the history of the Men’s Junior Asia Cup.

Highlights of the Final Match

India started the Gold Medal match aggressively, earning their first penalty corner just over seven minutes into the first quarter. Although Korea cleared the initial attempt, India quickly won another penalty corner. Ajeet Yadav capitalized on this opportunity, scoring in the 9th minute to give India a 1-0 lead.

Continuing their offensive strategy, India secured another penalty corner with two minutes left in the first quarter. Captain Anmol Ekka successfully converted this chance in the 13th minute, doubling India's lead to 2-0. Despite Korea's efforts to respond with a penalty corner late in the quarter, India's defense held strong, ending the first 15 minutes with a 2-0 advantage.

In the second quarter, India maintained control and scored their third goal in the 21st minute, with Prabhdeep Singh delivering a brilliant finish to extend the lead to 3-0. Korea attempted to mount a comeback, but India's defense remained disciplined, allowing them to head into halftime with a commanding 3-0 lead.

The third quarter saw India continue to dictate the pace of the game. They earned a penalty corner with under seven minutes left, but the attempt hit the crossbar. Korea's defense held firm throughout the quarter, preventing India from increasing their lead.

As the final quarter began, India continued their aggressive play and earned another penalty corner. After a failed referral by Korea, India retained the penalty corner and Ashu Maurya scored in the 50th minute, pushing the lead to 4-0. Korea was awarded a penalty stroke in the 54th minute, which Captain Lee Minhyeok converted, bringing the score to 4-1. Despite a late push from Korea, India successfully defended their lead to secure the victory.

Celebrating the Victory

With the final whistle, India celebrated their sixth Men’s Junior Asia Cup title, further establishing their dominance in the continental junior championship. This victory also secures India's qualification for the FIH Men’s Junior World Cup, marking another significant achievement in their campaign in Moqi.

In recognition of their remarkable performance, Hockey India announced a reward of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for every member of the support staff.

The Indian Junior Men’s Team concluded their campaign in Moqi on a high note, demonstrating consistency, resilience, and attacking prowess throughout the tournament, culminating in a 4-1 victory over Korea in the Gold Medal match.