Indian men’s hockey team advances to Asian Games final with a victory over Korea

The Indian men’s hockey team secured a thrilling 5-3 victory over Korea in the first semifinal of the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2022, earning a coveted spot in the tournament’s final.

India’s journey to the final has ignited hopes of clinching the gold medal and securing a berth at the Paris 2024 Olympics. In a high-intensity match, the Indian team showcased exceptional teamwork and skill to secure their place in the final.

The match kicked off with India launching immediate attacks, pressing deep into Korea’s territory to challenge their defense. In the 5th minute, Hardik Singh opened the scoring for India by capitalizing on a rebound inside the circle and slamming the ball into the net.

Just six minutes later, India extended their lead with a sensational team goal. A long ball into the circle was collected by Gurjant Singh, who delivered a precise pass to Mandeep Singh, allowing him to deflect the ball into the net.

Lalit Kumar Upadhyay further bolstered India’s lead by tapping the ball into the net in the 15th minute after seizing a rebound. At the end of the first quarter, India led 3-0, setting the stage for a commanding performance.

Korea, trailing by three goals, launched a spirited comeback and earned an early penalty corner. Manjae Jung’s clinical execution from the set-piece secured Korea’s first goal. Determined to close the gap, Korea continued to apply pressure from the left flank.

Manjae Jung notched his second goal in the 20th minute by deflecting the ball past Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, further reducing the deficit. However, Amit Rohidas responded swiftly for India with a powerful drag-flick from a penalty corner, extending the lead to 4-2.

India maintained their defensive composure to thwart further attacks and headed into halftime with a 4-2 advantage. The second half commenced with India seeking an early goal, but they faced resilient Korean defense.

Manjae Jung secured his hat-trick in the 42nd minute with another penalty corner conversion, bringing Korea within one goal at 3-4. The third quarter ended with India maintaining a slender lead.

As Korea continued to press deep into India’s half, Abhishek delivered a decisive blow in the 54th minute. He capitalized on a loose ball inside the circle, launching a powerful tomahawk shot into the net, expanding India’s lead to 5-3.

Sanjay made crucial interceptions to protect India’s defense as Korea attempted to mount a comeback. Ultimately, India successfully held off their opponents, securing a hard-fought 5-3 victory and securing a place in the final.

The Indian men’s hockey team will compete in the final on Friday, aiming to claim the gold medal and earn a coveted spot in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

-IANS