The Indian men’s hockey team are up against China in the Final of Hockey Asia Cup 2025 on Sunday (September 7).
As they take the field at the Rajgir Sports Complex’s Hockey ground, the Men in Blue wil be aiming to win their 4th continental title.
India has won the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey tournament three times in previous editions – in 2003, 2007, and 2017. The Asia Cup started in 1982 and has seen only a few teams dominate, with India being the most consistent side, having played in 8 of the 11 finals so far.
India Victories in Hockey Asia Cup
In the 2003 final, India defeated Pakistan 4-2, and in 2007 they convincingly won 7-2 against South Korea. Their most recent title win before 2025 was in 2017 when India beat Malaysia 2-1 in the final. India holds the record for the most wins and has secured 43 victories out of 56 matches in Asia Cup history, showcasing their dominance in the continental event. Alongside India, Pakistan and South Korea have also been frequent title winners, with South Korea winning the last Asia Cup held in 2022.
With three Asia Cup titles to their name-from 2003, 2007, and 2017-and a record of 43 wins in 56 matches, India stands as the most successful and consistent side in Asia’s premier hockey championship.
The Asia Cup, inaugurated in 1982, has witnessed fierce competition primarily among India, Pakistan, and South Korea. India has played in 8 of the 11 finals, exemplifying their sustained excellence. Their landmark 2003 triumph saw India clinch the title by defeating arch-rivals Pakistan 4-2 in Kuala Lumpur, a crucial win that reaffirmed India’s status as a hockey powerhouse.
After a brief setback in other editions, India reclaimed the Asia Cup crown in 2017, defeating Malaysia 2-1 in Dhaka, adding a third prestigious trophy to their cabinet. This victory symbolized India’s resurgence on the continental stage, reflecting their ongoing commitment to excellence in hockey.
India Hockey Asia Cup Win Editions and Scores with Goalscorers
2003, Kuala Lumpur
India 4-2 Pakistan
Kanwalpreet Singh 7′
Gagan Ajit Singh 17′
Ignace Tirkey 69′
Prabhjot Singh 70′
2007, Chennai
India 7-2 South Korea
Shivendra Singh 4′
Sunil 13′
Prabhjot Singh 31′, 64′
Rajpal Singh 42′, 55′
Ignace Tirkey 53′
2023, Dhaka
India 2-1 Malaysia
Ramandeep Singh 3′
Lalit Upadhyay 29′