India Wins Asia Cup Hockey Title After 8 Years, Beats South Korea 4-1 to Qualify for 2026 World Cup

The Indian men's hockey team regained its lost glory by clinching the Asia Cup title after eight years. India won the final match at the Rajgir Sports Complex in Bihar on Sunday, beating South Korea 4-1. This win was not only seen to bring India the coveted Asia Cup trophy in their fourth Asia Cup title, but also won them a direct ticket to the 2026 FIH Men's Hockey World Cup hosted in the Netherlands and Belgium.

The game began with India taking the early lead with Sukhjeet Singh scoring India's first goal in the initial minute. The team played aggressively and dominated the field. Dilpreet Singh was the player of the match as he scored two crucial goals in the 28th and 45th minutes.Amit Rohidas scored a penalty corner goal in the 50th minute. Dain Son scored a late goal in the 51st minute, but this had no implications in India's decisive victory.

It was India's fourth Asia Cup win, which it also won in 2003, 2007, and 2017. South Korea has the record of five titles and was the champion of the previous tournament. In the Super 4s stage, India and South Korea drew 1-1. Yet, India defeated their rivals decisively in the final.

Thousands of passionate supporters crowded the stadium to watch the local team, and the Indian players demonstrated high team play, with both solid defence and effective attacks. Team captain Harmanpreet Singh also influenced his team to victory.

Through this victory, India has earned a direct entry to the 2026 Hockey World Cup, giving them confidence in the forthcoming international event. During the tournament, Malaysia secured third place after beating China.

The victory was the talk of the town, and most people were very much pleased with the way the players played and worked so hard.