New Delhi: The Indian men’s hockey team produced a scintillating display on Sunday, defeating defending champions South Korea 4-1 in the Asia Cup 2025 final at Rajgir, Bihar, to claim the prestigious title and book their place in the 2026 Hockey World Cup.
India got off to a flying start with Sukhjeet Singh scoring in the first minute. Dilpreet Singh netted twice (28’, 45’), while Amit Rohidas added a fourth goal in the 50th minute to seal a comprehensive win. The victory marked India’s first Asia Cup triumph since 2017 and ended an eight-year wait for continental glory.
Former captain Manpreet Singh praised the team’s flawless execution:
“We are very happy. Whatever game plan we had, we executed it perfectly. We gave South Korea very few chances and converted our opportunities well. Our only target was to qualify for the World Cup, and now the focus shifts to performing there. It has been 50 years since we last won a World Cup, and we hope to change that this time.”
Player of the Tournament Abhishek Nain called it a “pure team effort,” while Mandeep Singh dedicated the victory to fans, calling it a “gift to India.” Shilanand Lakra highlighted that World Cup qualification was the team’s primary goal for the year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the team on X, writing:
“Congratulations to our Men’s Hockey Team for their splendid win in the Asia Cup 2025 held in Rajgir, Bihar. This win is even more special because they have defeated the defending champions, South Korea! This is a proud moment for Indian hockey and Indian sports.”
Indian cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir and Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also lauded the side’s dominant display.
To celebrate the historic triumph, Hockey India announced a cash reward of ₹3 lakh for each player and ₹1.5 lakh for the support staff.
India’s emphatic win not only secures a direct berth for the 2026 Hockey World Cup but also reignites hopes of ending the nation’s 50-year wait for a world title.
