India Beat Malaysia 3-1 to Reach Junior Hockey Asia Cup Final
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
India’s junior men’s hockey team secured a place in the Junior Men’s Hockey Asia Cup 2026 final after defeating Malaysia 3-1 in the first semi-final in Moqi, China, on Friday.
The victory keeps the five-time champions on course to defend their continental title. India will now meet the winner of the second semi-final between Pakistan and South Korea in the final.
Anmol Ekka Leads India’s Attack
India captain Anmol Ekka produced another impressive performance, scoring twice to help his side overcome Malaysia.
Sukhwinder also found the net for India, while Malaysia’s only goal came from M. Rahul.
India maintained control of the contest and eventually completed a 3-1 victory to book their place in the championship match.
Vivek Lakra Shines in Goal
Indian goalkeeper Vivek Lakra played a crucial role in the win, making several important saves throughout the match.
Lakra also stopped a penalty stroke, preventing Malaysia from adding to their score.
His impressive display earned him the Player of the Match award.
India’s Strong Run Continues
India have been among the standout teams at the AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026.
They finished at the top of Pool A after recording three victories and one draw during the group stage.
In their final pool match, India produced a dominant 15-0 victory over Chinese Taipei to confirm their place in the semi-finals.
Anmol Ekka was particularly influential in that match, scoring six goals by himself.
South Korea Also Reach Semi-Finals
South Korea secured their semi-final place after defeating Japan 3-2.
The result saw South Korea finish second in their group with nine points and advance to the knockout stage.
India will now wait for the outcome of the Pakistan-South Korea semi-final to discover their opponent in the final.
India’s Junior Asia Cup Record
India are one of the most successful teams in the history of the Junior Asia Cup.
The Indian junior men’s team has won the competition five times, with championship victories in 2004, 2008, 2015, 2023 and 2024.
India have also finished runners-up twice, in 1996 and 2000.
Pakistan, meanwhile, have won the tournament three times, making the upcoming final particularly significant for the region’s junior hockey teams.
India One Step Away From Another Title
With their semi-final victory, India have moved one step closer to another Junior Asia Cup championship.
The team will now focus on the final as they attempt to add another title to their impressive record in the continental competition.
