Salalah, Oman: The Indian men’s hockey team secured a historic victory at the inaugural Men’s Hockey 5s Asia Cup on Saturday, simultaneously earning their ticket to the FIH Men’s Hockey 5s World Cup Oman 2024. In an intense final showdown, India emerged victorious after defeating arch-rivals Pakistan in a thrilling encounter that ended in a 4-4 draw before India claimed a 2-0 victory in the shootout.
For India, it was Mohammed Raheel (19′, 26′), Jugraj Singh (7′), and Maninder Singh (10′) who found the back of the net during regulation time, while Gurjot Singh and Maninder Singh came through in the shootout to seal their victory. Pakistan’s goals came from Abdul Rehman (5′), Captain Abdul Rana (13′), Zikriya Hayat (14′), and Arshad Liaqat (19′).
The game got off to a spirited start as India aggressively pushed into Pakistan’s territory. Despite a strong defence by Pakistan, Abdul Rehman (5′) managed to break the deadlock, putting Pakistan ahead. However, India quickly responded, with Jugraj Singh (7′) levelling the score, followed by Maninder Singh (10), who gave India the lead.
Pakistan, not to be outdone, mounted a comeback, with Captain Abdul Rana (13′) and Zikriya Hayat (14′) scoring two late goals before halftime, putting Pakistan in the lead at 3-2.
Trailing by one goal, India returned for the second half with a determined offensive strategy, maintaining possession and pressing into Pakistan’s half. But Pakistan seized an opportunity as Arshad Liaqat (19′) extended their lead.
India, however, was relentless in its pursuit of a comeback. Mohammed Raheel (19′) responded swiftly, reducing the deficit. India continued to attack from all angles, forcing Pakistan into crucial defensive errors. Mohammed Raheel (26′) demonstrated exceptional dribbling skills to level the score.
As the clock ticked towards full-time, both teams searched for the winning goal, but regulation time ended with the score at 4-4.
With the match tied, it came down to a thrilling shootout. Gurjot Singh and Maninder Singh converted their shots for India, while Pakistan’s Arshad Liaqat and Muhammad Murtaza missed theirs, leading India to a 4-4 (2-0 SO) victory and the coveted trophy.
In recognition of their remarkable performance and crucial win, Hockey India announced a reward of Rs 2.00 lakh for each player and Rs 1.00 lakh for each member of the support staff.
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey extended his congratulations to the team for their qualification for the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup Oman 2024 and their gold medal win. He praised their outstanding performance and the months of hard work and preparation that had paid off.
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