India defeat Pakistan to clinch 2024 Junior Hockey Asia Cup

India triumphed in the 2024 Men’s Junior Hockey Asia Cup, defeating Pakistan 5-3 in an exhilarating final.

Araijeet Singh Hundal was the standout performer, scoring four goals to lead India to their third consecutive title in the competition.

Pakistan took an early lead in the match, with captain Hannan Shahid scoring just three minutes into the game. However, India responded swiftly, and Hundal equalized a minute later, ensuring the first quarter ended in a 1-1 draw.

The second quarter saw India assert their dominance. The defending champions scored two quick goals, with Dilraj Singh finding the back of the net in the 18th minute, followed by Hundal’s second goal just a minute later, putting India ahead 3-1.

Pakistan made a strong comeback in the third quarter, leveling the score at 3-3 with two goals from Sufiyan Khan, who netted a brace in the 30th and 39th minutes.

The final quarter saw Hundal’s brilliance shine through as he scored twice more, sealing the victory for India with a 5-3 scoreline.

Both teams entered the final unbeaten, having won all their group stage and semifinal matches. India’s win marked their third consecutive Men’s Junior Hockey Asia Cup title, following their victory over Pakistan in the previous edition as well.