In a thrilling showdown at the Sultan of Johor Cup, the junior men’s hockey team of India clinched the bronze medal by edging out arch-rivals Pakistan in a dramatic penalty shootout, ultimately winning 6-5. This remarkable victory followed a challenging journey for the defending champions.
India, who had suffered a 3-6 defeat against Germany in the semi-finals, staged a strong comeback in the bronze medal match against Pakistan. The U21 Indian team has a history of success in the tournament, securing their 9th medal in 11 editions.
The match kicked off with India taking an early lead as Arun Sahani found the back of the net in the 11th minute. Pakistan’s Sufyan Khan responded with an equalizer in the 33rd minute, but India quickly regained the lead when CB Poovana scored nine minutes later.
Pakistan remained determined, and in the 50th minute, Abdul Qayyum’s field goal breathed new life into their prospects. However, Uttam Singh, the Indian team captain, appeared to have sealed the win with a goal just two minutes later. Remarkably, Pakistan managed to level the score for the third time in the game when skipper Hannan Shahid converted a Penalty Corner.
When regulation time concluded, the score stood at 3-3, echoing the result of their previous encounter in the group stage.
The penalty shootout brought intense excitement as the first four attempts from both sides resulted in goals. However, Pakistan faced a setback when Murtaza Yaqoob became the first player to miss the target.
India had a chance to clinch victory, but Pakistan’s goalkeeper, Ali Raza, made a crucial save during Aman Deep’s attempt. Unfortunately for India, the rebound missed the mark, forcing a sudden-death shootout.
In the sudden-death scenario, India took the initiative as Vishnukant Singh skillfully netted the ball past Raza, giving his team the upper hand. Arshad Liaqat of Pakistan managed to equalize, keeping the hopes alive for his team.
Ultimately, in the sixth round, the Indian goalkeeper thwarted Hannan Shahid’s attempt, securing the victory for Coach CR Kumar’s squad.
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