The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team produced a statement performance to open their FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025 campaign, dismantling Chile 7–0 in their first Pool B match at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Egmore, Chennai.
The emphatic victory, backed by a buzzing home crowd and a grand opening ceremony, set the tone for a tournament where India enter as strong contenders. Goals from Rosan Kujur (16’, 21’), Dilraj Singh (25’, 34’), Ajeet Yadav (35’), Anmol Ekka (48’) and skipper Rohit (59’) completed a commanding performance, while goalkeepers Bikramjeet Singh and Prince Deep Singh ensured India began with a clean slate.
Slow Start, Strong Finish to the First Half
India entered the match as favourites, but the opening quarter told a different story. Chile, despite being the underdogs, showed composure and structure, denying India early openings and matching their intensity. Indian striker Dilraj Singh made a few promising penetrations, but the Chilean defence held firm.
India earned a penalty corner in the 15th minute but failed to capitalise, leaving the first quarter goalless. However, the hosts returned for the second quarter with renewed purpose. Just 30 seconds into the restart, Rosan Kujur broke the deadlock with a calm finish, sending the Chennai fans into a frenzy. The goal energised India, and Rosan struck again in the 21st minute. A long pass from midfield found him unmarked inside the circle, and he made no mistake in doubling the lead.
From that moment, India seized full control. The early resistance from Chile faded as India’s pressing and off-the-ball movement tightened, allowing them to dictate possession and tempo.
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With the momentum firmly on their side, India continued to push forward. In the 25th minute, Dilraj Singh found the net to extend India’s lead to 3–0, a scoreline that reflected the shift in intensity.
India returned from halftime intent on killing the game early. Their fourth goal, scored in the 34th minute, was one of the most impressive sequences of the match. Ankit Pal produced a brilliant solo effort, dribbling past three Chilean defenders before finding Dilraj, who executed a swift turn and fired home his second of the evening.
Barely a minute later, Ajeet Yadav unleashed a superb strike to make it 5–0, leaving the South Americans completely out of the contest.
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The final quarter saw India continue to dominate, exploring new combinations and creating scoring opportunities. Midfielder Manmeet Singh earned a penalty corner in the 48th minute, and Anmol Ekka executed a clinical flick aimed at the right corner to stretch the lead to 6–0.
In the 59th minute, India capped off their performance with a seventh goal. Captain Rohit stepped up for a penalty stroke and converted confidently, delivering a fitting end to a near-perfect outing. Just as crucial as the goals was India’s defensive discipline. Goalkeepers Bikramjeet Singh and Prince Deep Singh were barely tested but remained alert throughout, ensuring India recorded a well-earned clean sheet.
A Strong Statement to Start the World Cup
The 7–0 win sends a clear message to the rest of the field: India are here not just to compete, but to dominate. The team showcased depth in attack, creativity in midfield, and a tight defensive structure all essential ingredients for a deep run in the tournament. With tougher opponents ahead, this performance provides both confidence and momentum. The support inside the Chennai stadium only added to the energy, reflecting the significance of hosting a global junior event on home soil.
Live streaming of all matches is available on JioHotstar, ensuring fans across the country can follow India’s journey as they push for the title.
