FIH Men Junior World Cup 2025: India Draws Rivals Pakistan in Group B as Tournament Expands to 24 Teams
The countdown has officially begun for one of the most anticipated events in international hockey. The FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025, set to be hosted in Tamil Nadu, India, has drawn its pools and with them, a historic matchup. India finds itself in Pool B, alongside traditional rivals Pakistan, as well as Chile and Switzerland. The tournament, which runs from 28 November to 10 December, will be split across Chennai and Madurai, two southern Indian cities steeped in sporting culture and now ready to embrace world-class hockey.
But this is no ordinary edition.
A Historic First for the Junior World Cup
For the first time in its history, the Junior World Cup will feature 24 teams, expanding from the previous 16-team format. This move is part of the FIH’s new strategy to broaden the game’s global reach, empower emerging hockey nations, and strengthen youth engagement. The expansion allows representation from a wider array of countries, offering fans a unique blend of traditional powerhouses and ambitious debutants.
The pool compositions reflect this diversity:
- Pool A: Germany, South Africa, Canada, Ireland
- Pool B: India, Pakistan, Chile, Switzerland
- Pool C: Argentina, New Zealand, Japan, China
- Pool D: Spain, Belgium, Egypt, Namibia
- Pool E: Netherlands, Malaysia, England, Austria
- Pool F: France, Australia, South Korea, Bangladesh
This draw was revealed in a special ceremony in Lausanne, Switzerland, with the presence of FIH President Dr. Tayyab Ikram, Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh, and Director General Commander R.K. Srivastava. The tournament will not only spotlight hockey’s emerging stars but also showcase India’s capability to host world-class events in what will be the country’s fourth time hosting the Men’s Junior World Cup after 2013, 2016, and 2021.
Germany Leads the Medal Table But Can They Repeat?
Germany, the defending champions, continue to lead the medal table in the Junior World Cup’s storied history. They clinched their record 7th title in 2023 by defeating France 2–1 in a hard-fought final in Kuala Lumpur. Their legacy spans titles in 1982, 1985, 1989, 1993, 2009, 2013, and 2023, and they have made the semifinals in all but one edition of the tournament a staggering show of consistency.
Germany’s biggest challengers in recent years have included:
- India, with titles in 2001 and 2016, runners-up in 1997, and three bronze medals.
- Argentina, crowned champions in 2005 and 2021.
- Australia, who won in 1997 but have since been consistent semifinalists.
- France, the 2023 runners-up and a growing force in world hockey.
Notably, India has made the final four in six out of the last eight editions, underscoring the country’s strong developmental pipeline.
India’s Journey Through the Junior World Cup
India has been a proud participant in the Junior World Cup since its inception in 1979. The team has played 12 editions so far, winning the title twice and finishing on the podium six times. A quick look at India’s historical performance:
- 1997 (Milton Keynes) – Silver (lost to Australia in the final 3-2)
- 2001 (Hobart) – Gold (defeated Argentina 6-1 in the final)
- 2005 (Rotterdam) – Fourth (lost to Spain in bronze match)
- 2013 (New Delhi) – Tenth
- 2016 (Lucknow) – Gold (defeated Belgium 2-1)
- 2021 (Bhubaneswar) – Fourth
- 2023 (Kuala Lumpur) – Fourth
India’s consistent semifinal appearances in 2016, 2021, and 2023 speak to a robust junior program, but the team will be eager to return to the top step of the podium on home soil.
The 2025 edition will give India a significant advantage playing at home, possibly with packed stadiums in Chennai and Madurai, and supported by a rich tradition of grassroots hockey in Tamil Nadu.
Spotlight on Pool B: Subcontinental Rivalry Reignited
The biggest headline from the draw? India vs. Pakistan a clash steeped in history and emotion.
Though these two hockey giants have frequently faced off at the senior level, their junior matchups have been equally gripping. The subcontinental rivalry will now take center stage in Tamil Nadu, with both teams vying not only for bragging rights but also crucial points to advance to the knockout stages.
Chile and Switzerland, while not traditional powerhouses, will aim to create upsets. Chile has shown promise in Pan-American competitions, while Switzerland’s inclusion is emblematic of FIH’s mission to grow the sport globally.
A Strong Stage and a Clear Mission
The Junior World Cup 2025 promises more than medals it’s about the next generation of global stars. With the tournament acting as a platform for future Olympians and senior team captains, every pass, every goal, and every save will be a glimpse into the future of world hockey.
Madurai, set to host matches for the first time, is constructing a brand-new state-of-the-art stadium, signaling Indian hockey’s intent to grow the game beyond its traditional heartlands. Chennai, meanwhile, brings back memories of hosting the Men’s Champions Trophy in 2005, where India made the semifinals.
The local government led by Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin and Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin is keen to turn the Junior World Cup into a state-wide sporting celebration.
Tournament Format and What Lies Ahead
With six pools of four teams, the tournament will likely see the top two teams from each pool and the four best third-placed teams qualify for the Round of 16, though final competition rules are yet to be officially published.
From there, it’s knockout hockey at its finest.
The final will be held on 10 December, with all matches expected to be broadcast live, and fans across India and the world eagerly tuning in to witness the rise of the sport’s next generation.
Summary of Indian Results in Junior World Cup History
Gold Medals:
- 2001 – Beat Argentina 6-1
- 2016 – Beat Belgium 2-1
Silver Medal:
- 1997 – Lost to Australia 2-3
Bronze Medals:
- 2005 – Lost to Spain (6–5 via shootout)
- 2021 – Lost to France in bronze match
- 2023 – Lost to Spain 1–3
The FIH Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025 isn’t just about results it’s about reclaiming pride, cementing legacies, and celebrating the next wave of hockey excellence. With a mix of history, ambition, and world-class infrastructure, India is ready to play host in a way that inspires generations.
Drawn Battles. Rivalries Renewed. Stakes Raised. Let the countdown begin.
