In the Hero Asian Champions Trophy, defending champions India continued their dominant performance with a solid 3-1 victory against Korea at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir, China. India’s Skipper Harmanpreet Singh shone in the match, scoring twice (9’, 43’) and bringing his international goal tally to 200. Araijeet Singh Hundal gave India an early lead with a goal in the 8th minute.
India’s quick start was boosted by Hundal’s goal, which came from a well-placed cross by Vivek Sagar Prasad. Harmanpreet extended the lead just a minute later by converting a penalty corner. Korea, determined not to let India dominate, responded with Jihun Yang converting a penalty corner in the 30th minute to reduce India’s lead to 2-1.
The third quarter saw both teams exchange penalty corners, but only Harmanpreet managed to score, giving India a comfortable 3-1 lead. India’s defense, led by Krishan B Pathak and Suraj Karkera, held strong in the final quarter to maintain their advantage.
India will now face arch-rival Pakistan in their next match, aiming to keep their unbeaten streak alive. Suraj Karkera, named Hero of the Match, credited the team’s defensive focus for the win and highlighted the impact of their preparation with seasoned goalkeeper Sreejesh.