India triumphs at the 2024 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy in Inner Mongolia
Favorites secure historic fifth title
The 2024 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy has concluded in Hulunbuir City, Inner Mongolia, China, with India’s successful defense of their title in a hotly contested tournament that showcased the very best of Asian field hockey.
Played on Poligras hockey turf, this year’s competition ran from September 8 to 17 and brought together six of Asia’s premier teams—China, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Pakistan—for a 10-day showcase of speed, skill, and passion.
A dramatic campaign from commanding Indian team
From the outset, every team meant business. India, the reigning champions, dominated the group stages, led by talismanic captain and drag-flick master Harmanpreet Singh. Their only real challenge came in the final pool match against rivals Pakistan on September 14. Despite Ahmad Nadeem’s early goal for Pakistan, Harmanpreet scored twice in quick succession to secure a 2-1 win for India.
Host nation China impressed with their resilience, thrilling home crowds and fought hard to secure a spot in the knockout rounds.
Knockout action sets the stage
In the semi-finals, India faced South Korea and proved too strong, winning 4-1, while host nation China squared off against Pakistan. With missed opportunities for Pakistan and powerhouse goalkeeping from Wang Caiyu (AKA The Great Wall of China), the tight battle came down to a penalty shoot-out, with China emerging victorious to book their first final appearance.
“Despite India’s attacking power and the fact that they were fresh from winning Olympic bronze at Paris 2024, China’s disciplined defense kept the game scoreless for three quarters.”
A final of firsts and fifths
The final between India and China was closer than expected. Despite India’s attacking power and the fact that they were fresh from winning Olympic bronze at Paris 2024, China’s disciplined defense kept the game scoreless for three quarters. China, who had lost 3-0 to India earlier in the tournament, showed tremendous grit to stay in contention. However, India finally broke through in the fourth quarter with a crucial goal from Jugraj Singh, assisted by Harmanpreet, to win 1-0.
India’s victory marked their record-extending fifth Asian Champions Trophy title. Harmanpreet Singh, named the tournament’s Best Player, was instrumental in India’s success, scoring seven goals throughout the event.
Pakistan's bronze bonus
Pakistan’s performance captured attention and inspired talk of a resurgence with their efforts throughout the tournament. In the bronze-medal match, they came back from 0-1 to beat South Korea 5-2. Sufyan Khan and Hannan Shahid both scored braces, while Rooman added another goal, securing a podium finish for Pakistan.
A tournament to remember, played on Poligras
The tournament saw 103 goals scored over 20 matches, showcasing precision passing, penalty corners, and exceptional defensive plays. China’s spirited performance, culminating in their first final appearance, was a major highlight, with goalkeeper Wang Caiyu named Best Goalkeeper. Their disciplined and hard-drilled efforts standing as a testament to their progress as a rising force in Asian hockey.
The 2024 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy was a showcase of skill, passion, and thrilling moments. With the growing competitiveness of teams like China, the revival of Pakistan and the continued brilliance of India, the future of Asian hockey looks bright.
The 2024 Men’s Asian Champions Trophy took place September 8th to 17th on Polytan’s Poligras turf.