India defeated arch-rivals Pakistan 2-1 in the final of the Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2023 on Thursday in Salalah, Oman.
India took the lead in the 13th minute through Angad Bir Singh, and doubled it five minutes into the second quarter through Araijeet Singh Hundal. Pakistan pulled one back in the 38th minute through Basharat Ali, but India held on to win the match and the tournament.
This was India’s fourth title at the Men’s Junior Asia Cup, having previously won in 2004, 2008, and 2015. Pakistan are the second-most successful team in the tournament with three titles, but their last win came in 1996.
India and Pakistan were both undefeated in the group stage, drawing 1-1 in their head-to-head match. India topped the group on goal difference, and then beat the Republic of Korea 9-1 in the semi-finals. Pakistan defeated Malaysia 6-2 in their semi-final.
The Men’s Junior Asia Cup in Oman was the first time the tournament had been held since 2015, as the 2021 edition was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The victory is a major boost for Indian hockey, and will give the team confidence ahead of the upcoming Junior World Cup in India in December.