India Remains Unbeaten at Asian Champions Trophy, Advances to Finals with Victory Over Japan with 5-0
- Posted on August 12, 2023
- Sports
- By Sakshi Nawani
- 355 Views
On Friday, 11th
August, 2023, India delivered an outstanding display, securing a commanding 5-0
win over Japan in their semifinal match in Asian Champions Trophy Hockey
Tournament at Chennai.
At the start of
the match, after a shaky opening, the hosts gradually gained control. An early
penalty corner allowed India a chance to take the lead. Harmanpreet Singh's
drag flick was stopped by Japan's goalkeeper, who swiftly countered, causing
trouble. Their final shot narrowly missed the post. A minute later, Shamsher
Singh received a green card and sat out for two minutes. Both teams pushed for
a goal, but the first quarter ended with a tie.
The second quarter began with a mistake by India, but Japan couldn't capitalize. Akashdeep Singh capitalized on Japan's error, scoring the first goal with a field goal. India took advantage, swiftly scoring twice before halftime. Harmanpreet's drag flick secured the second goal, while Mandeep's superb hit made it 3-0.
India started the
third quarter strongly. Sumit's impressive run led to a goal in the 39th
minute. In the 51st minute, Karthi Selvam made it five for India after a pass
from Sukhjeet Sin inside the circle.
Malaysia achieved
a comparable outcome by defeating Korea with a 6-2 victory, securing their spot
in the final. India has scored five goals against Malaysia during their
group-stage match India will encounter Malaysia on 12th August, 2023 in the
final match which will begin at 8.30 PM.
Indian men's hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh mentioned that reaching the final was a significant accomplishment after winning the semi-finals of the Asian Champions Trophy. He further commented that their performance that day was commendable, as they executed their game according to their pre-established plan. He added that the team aimed to perform well in the final. He mentioned that the upcoming match would be challenging, but they were completely prepared and well aware of the importance of winning.
Indian Hockey
team member, Jugraj Singh highlighted the significance of the match and
emphasized that securing the victory was a crucial achievement for them. Jugraj
Singh also mentioned that the ongoing tournament served as preparation for the
Asian Games, as the participating teams in both events were the same.
Sumit, fourth
goal scorer, remarked that their victory in the semi-finals of the Asian
Champions Trophy was not solely attributed to his goal but rather to the
collective effort of the entire team. He emphasized that their primary focus
was on winning the finals, as that held greater importance.
For more updates
keep visiting our website www.topstoriesworld.com where we provide unbiased,
true, and top stories of the world.