In a stunning display of skill and determination, Araijeet Singh Hundal scored four goals to lead India to a thrilling 5-3 victory over Pakistan in the final of the Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2024. This triumph marks India’s fifth title in the prestigious tournament, following previous victories in 2004, 2008, 2015, and 2023. Hundal’s clinical performance, which included three penalty corner conversions and a field goal, was the standout moment of the match. With this victory, India secured a hat-trick of titles and reaffirmed their dominance in junior hockey, showcasing their strength and depth in the sport.

India Wins 5th Title in Thrilling Final

India secured their fifth Men’s Junior Asia Cup title by defeating arch-rivals Pakistan 5-3 in the final on Wednesday in Muscat. Araijeet Singh Hundal was the standout performer, scoring four goals to guide India to a hat-trick of titles in the competition. This victory added to India’s previous wins in 2004, 2008, 2015, and 2023, with the tournament not being held in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Araijeet Singh Hundal’s Outstanding Performance

Araijeet was in superb form, converting three penalty corners in the 4th, 18th, and 54th minutes, and adding a field goal in the 47th minute. Dilraj Singh also contributed with a field goal in the 19th minute to extend India’s lead.

Pakistan’s Fightback

Despite India’s dominance, Pakistan fought hard and scored three goals. Sufyan Khan was the key for Pakistan, converting two penalty corners in the 30th and 39th minutes, while Hannan Shahid gave Pakistan the lead with a field goal in the 3rd minute.

Early Drama and India’s Response

Pakistan struck first with Shahid’s early field goal in the 3rd minute, but India quickly responded. Araijeet drew India level with a powerful drag-flick from a penalty corner. India then gained control in the second quarter, with Araijeet converting a second penalty corner in the 18th minute and Dilraj adding a field goal to put India 3-1 ahead.

Pakistan Pushes Back, But India Holds On

Pakistan fought back in the second half, with Sufyan converting another penalty corner in the 39th minute to make it 3-3. However, Araijeet restored India’s lead with a field goal in the 47th minute, followed by another penalty corner goal in the 54th minute, securing India’s 5-3 win.

Japan Wins Third Place

Earlier in the day, Japan defeated Malaysia 2-1 to secure third place in the tournament.

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