India scripted history at the Bihar Sports University Hockey Stadium in Rajgir as they defeated defending champions South Korea 4-1 in the final of the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey 2025. With this emphatic win, India lifted the prestigious trophy for the fourth time and booked a direct spot in the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup.
The hosts got off to a dream start when Sukhjeet Singh scored inside the very first minute with a stunning reverse shot, putting India ahead 1-0. The early strike gave Craig Fulton’s men the momentum as they continued to dominate possession and attack relentlessly.
In the 27th minute, Dilpreet Singh doubled the lead with a powerful shot at the near post, making it 2-0 at half-time. India carried the same intensity into the third quarter as Harmanpreet Singh’s pass found Rajinder, who guided the ball towards Dilpreet. The forward made no mistake in scoring his second goal of the match to extend the lead to 3-0.
India finally capitalized on a penalty corner in the 50th minute when Amit Rohidas struck a brilliant low shot into the bottom corner, stretching the scoreline to 4-0. Korea managed to pull one back in the 51st minute through Son Dain from a penalty corner, but it only served as consolation.
India enjoyed 54% possession and displayed tactical discipline in both attack and defense. The team successfully defended multiple Korean penalty corners and showcased composure in key moments.
This victory marks India’s fourth Asia Cup title and a sweet redemption after losing to Korea in the 2021 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final. More importantly, the win secured India’s qualification for the 2026 FIH World Cup, cementing their place among the elite.
