India on Friday (October 6) clinched a resounding victory in the Asian Games men's hockey final, overpowering defending champions Japan with a commanding 5-1 scoreline. Under the leadership of Skipper Harmanpreet Singh, the Indian Men's Hockey Team showcased exceptional prowess, securing their fourth Asian Games gold after a nine-year gap and guaranteeing their spot in the upcoming Paris Olympics.
This triumph held special significance for India, as their last gold medal in the continental spectacle dated back to the 2014 Incheon edition. Prior to this, they had clinched gold medals in 1966 and 1998, both times in Bangkok.
India Men's Hockey team wins gold medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games pic.twitter.com/DsD9Mmjv2c
— ANI (@ANI) October 6, 2023
South Korea secured the bronze medal with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against the host nation, China.
In a celebratory message posted on X, Prime Minister Modi lauded the Men's Hockey Team for their thrilling Gold Medal victory at the Asian Games.
An exhilarating Gold Medal triumph by our Men's Hockey Team at the Asian Games! Congratulations to the team for this outstanding performance. This team's unwavering commitment, passion and synergy have not only won the game but also the hearts of countless Indians. This victory… pic.twitter.com/WFX6sbMzKc
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 6, 2023
Harmanpreet Singh was the standout performer, netting two crucial goals from penalty corners in the 32nd and 59th minutes. Amit Rohidas also contributed with a set-piece goal in the 36th minute. Manpreet Singh and Abhishek added to the tally with impressive field goals in the 25th and 48th minutes, respectively.
Japan managed to break the Indian defense with a penalty corner converted by Seren Tanaka in the 51st minute.
Harmanpreet Singh emerged as the tournament's top scorer for India with an impressive total of 13 goals, one ahead of striker Mandeep Singh.
The Indian team's unbeaten streak throughout the competition underscored their dominance over Japan, whom they had previously defeated 4-2 during the pool stage.
With inputs from PTI
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