Asian Champions Trophy 2024: Indian men's hockey team reaches semis
What's the story
The Indian men's hockey team delivered a stellar performance, defeating Malaysia 8-1 in their third group match of the Asian Champions Trophy 2024. The match was held at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir, China. Midfielder Raj Kumar Pal led the team to victory with his first senior-level hat-trick, scoring goals in the 3rd, 25th, and 33rd minutes of the game. India have been in superb form in the ongoing tournament. Here's more.
Team effort
India hammer Malaysia
In addition to Pal's hat-trick, several other players contributed to India's resounding victory. Araijeet Singh Hundal scored twice in the 6th and 39th minutes, while Jugraj Singh (7'), captain Harmanpreet Singh (22'), and Uttam Singh (40') each added a goal. Malaysia's lone goal was scored by Akhimullah Anuar. This comprehensive win for India has further solidified the team's position at the top of the tournament standings with nine points from three matches.
India
India's performance in the 2024 Asian Champions Trophy
India started their 2024 Asian Champions Trophy campaign in style by beating China 3-0 on September 8. Thereafter, Harmanpreet's side overcame Japan 5-1 on September 9. On Wednesday, India's 8-1 win over Malaysia saw them race to nine points from three matches. India have scored 16 goals and conceded two. India face South Korea next before facing Pakistan in the six-team round-robin tourney. The top four will advance to the semi-finals. India are the only side to qualify thus far.
Paris Olympics
India won bronze medal at 2024 Paris Olympics
The Indian men's hockey team finished its hard-fought journey with a smile at the 2024 Paris Olympics. India, who were beaten 3-2 in the semis by Germany, produced a stunning display against Spain in the bronze medal match. Harmanpreet's two goals meant India won the contest by a 2-1 margin after having earlier gone down. The team won consecutive Olympic Games medals for first time since 1972. India had won the bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics as well.