Jugraj Singh Scores the Decisive Goal
The Indian men’s hockey team won the Asian Champions Trophy 2024, defeating hosts China 1-0 at the Moqi Hockey Training Base in Hulunbuir. Jugraj Singh scored the only goal of the match in the fourth quarter, securing India’s fifth title in the tournament.
India’s Strong Start and Missed Opportunities
India, ranked 5th in the world, dominated the first quarter but couldn’t convert chances. Harmanpreet Singh attempted several penalty corners, but China’s defense held firm. China’s goalkeeper, Wang Weihao, made crucial saves against Manpreet Singh and Nilakanta Sharma to keep the game level at halftime.
China’s Resistance and India’s Breakthrough
China, ranked 23rd, showed resilience in the third quarter, earning three penalty corners. However, India’s defense, led by Amit Rohidas, managed to block each attempt. With only nine minutes left, Jugraj Singh broke the deadlock, scoring from close range after a brilliant run by Harmanpreet Singh.
India’s Legacy in the Asian Champions Trophy
This win adds to India’s impressive record in the Asian Champions Trophy, with five titles (2011, 2016, 2018 – shared with Pakistan, 2023, and 2024). China, in their first-ever final, showed commendable growth throughout the tournament.
Key Performances
- Harmanpreet Singh, India’s captain, was named Player of the Tournament. He was India’s top scorer with seven goals.
- Yang Jihun of South Korea was the Top Goal Scorer of the tournament, with nine goals.
Other Award Winners
- Best Goalkeeper: Wang Caiyu (China)
- Promising Goalkeeper: Kim Jaehan (Korea)
- Rising Star: Hanan Shahid (Pakistan)
India’s win cements their place as the most successful team in the tournament’s history. Their triumph sets the stage for more achievements in the international hockey arena.
