Rajgir: The Indian men’s hockey team clinched the Hero Asia Cup 2025 crown on Sunday with a dominant 4-1 win over Korea at the Rajgir Sports Complex, regaining continental supremacy and booking a spot in the 2026 World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium.
The packed stadium roared as Sukhjeet Singh struck within 30 seconds, followed by a brace from Dilpreet Singh (28’, 45’) and a late goal from Amit Rohidas (50’). Korea pulled one back in the final quarter through a clever penalty corner routine, but India’s commanding performance left no doubt about the result.
The win ended India’s eight-year drought, their last Asia Cup triumph coming in 2017 in Dhaka. Hockey India announced cash rewards of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for support staff in recognition of the team’s achievement.
The early strike from Sukhjeet set the tone, while captain Harmanpreet Singh’s passing and midfield coordination anchored India’s relentless pressure. Dilpreet’s two goals highlighted his poise in front of the net, and Rohidas sealed the contest with a decisive penalty corner.
Fans in Rajgir thronged the venue in large numbers, celebrating a historic victory that not only restored India’s position as Asia’s hockey powerhouse but also marked a milestone for Bihar as hosts of the tournament.
