The Indian men’s hockey team secured a 5-2 victory over China at the Asian Champions Trophy, continuing their strong performance at the tournament.
The match took place at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar on Thursday.
Harmanpreet Singh and Sukhjeet Singh each scored twice, while Jugraj Singh also contributed a goal, helping India achieve a comprehensive win. For China, Yang Peng and Chen Chongcong were the scorers.
India dominated from the start, taking the lead in the 12th minute with a lob finish from Sukhjeet Singh, who controlled an aerial pass before chipping the ball over the goalkeeper. Although India sought to increase their lead, China’s defence tightened as the match progressed.
China equalised in the 26th minute when Yang Peng converted a penalty corner. India responded strongly after the break, with Harmanpreet Singh scoring a penalty corner goal in the 31st minute, followed by Sukhjeet Singh’s close-range finish in the 34th minute, restoring India’s lead.
China reduced the deficit again in the 36th minute through Chen Chongcong’s drag-flick. India maintained control in the final quarter, with Jugraj Singh scoring from a penalty corner in the 47th minute and Harmanpreet Singh completing his brace to secure the 5-2 victory.
India will face Japan on Friday as they aim to sustain their winning momentum in the tournament.