India fight back after early setback to record emphatic win in Super 4s stage
India secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Malaysia in the Menβs Hockey Asia Cup Super 4s on Thursday at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium, a result that not only consolidated their position in the group but also gave captain Harmanpreet Singh reason to celebrate on his 250th international appearance.
The contest began on a tense note when Malaysia drew first blood through Shafiq Hassan in the second minute, catching the hosts off guard. The early goal tested Indiaβs composure, but the home side responded with maturity and control. By the end of the first half, India had not only erased the deficit but also stamped their dominance with three quick goals.
Veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh restored parity in the 17th minute, capitalising on a rebound from a penalty corner. Just two minutes later, Sukhjeet Singh converted a close-range chance to put India ahead. The momentum firmly shifted when Shilanand Lakra extended the lead in the 24th minute with a well-executed deflection, leaving the Malaysian defence scrambling.
After the interval, India continued to dictate the pace of the game. Vivek Sagar Prasad added the fourth in the 38th minute, ensuring there would be no way back for the visitors. Malaysia attempted to stage a fightback through penalty corners and quick counterattacks, but Indiaβs defence, marshalled by Harmanpreet at the back, held firm. Goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak also produced crucial saves to shut the door on any Malaysian resurgence.
The match underscored Indiaβs ability to absorb early pressure and turn adversity into opportunity. The team had drawn against Korea the previous day and faced questions about consistency, but the performance against Malaysia highlighted both resilience and tactical discipline. The forwards pressed aggressively, the midfield controlled possession, and the defence maintained structure after the initial lapse.
For Harmanpreet, the result carried special significance. Leading the side in his milestone match, he described the win as the perfect way to mark his 250th international cap. He credited the teamβs collective approach, noting that even after conceding first, the side stuck to its plan and executed it effectively. His presence at the back lent stability, allowing the attacking unit to play with freedom.
Head coach Craig Fulton praised the squadβs response after the early setback. He emphasised that conceding inside the first two minutes is rarely ideal, but the players showed character by scoring four unanswered goals. Fulton noted that the preparation for Malaysia had focused on identifying their patterns, and the players applied the strategy effectively on the pitch.
The victory boosts Indiaβs momentum in the Super 4s stage, keeping their push for a place in the final firmly on track. With this result, they not only underlined their credentials as strong contenders but also demonstrated depth across all departments. The balance between youth and experience was evident, as veterans like Manpreet combined with emerging talents like Vivek and Lakra to deliver a comprehensive performance.
India will next face China on Saturday in a match that could prove decisive in shaping the path to the final. For now, the team will take confidence from a display that showcased their ability to regroup quickly, capitalise on opportunities, and close out a game with authority. The win also reassures fans that the side is capable of handling pressure situations, a quality that will be critical in the business end of the tournament.
