The Indian Men’s Hockey Team produced a commanding performance in their second Super 4s match at the Hero Men’s Hockey Asia Cup Rajgir Bihar 2025, defeating Malaysia 4-1 at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium.
The night was made more memorable with captain Harmanpreet Singh earning his 250th international cap, a landmark achievement in his illustrious career. India, who had drawn their opening Super 4s encounter, climbed to the top of the pool with this victory, underlining their growing confidence in front of a packed home crowd.
The match began with a shock for the hosts. Barely two minutes into play, Malaysia capitalised on their first real attack. Shafiq Hassan latched on to a loose ball in the circle and struck past goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak to make it 1-0.
The early breakthrough lifted the visitors, who kept control of possession through the first quarter. Their midfield pressed high, restricting India’s outlets from defence. Dilpreet Singh and Harmanpreet Singh tried to push forward but Malaysia held their shape well. India started finding rhythm late in the quarter, creating half-chances, yet they trailed 1-0 at the first break.
India’s Second-Quarter Surge
The momentum shifted dramatically in the second quarter. India forced five successive penalty corners in the opening minutes. Four attempts were thwarted, including a strong save from Harmanpreet’s drag-flick. But persistence paid off when veteran Manpreet Singh (17’) seized on a rebound to level the score at 1-1.
With the pressure now mounting, India turned the tide completely. Just two minutes later, Sukhjeet Singh (19’) produced a clinical finish to put India ahead 2-1. The hosts were suddenly brimming with energy, feeding off the crowd’s roar.
The third goal came in style. Dilpreet Singh drove through midfield and released Shilanand Lakra (24’), who showed sharp reflexes to deflect the ball past the Malaysian keeper. From trailing early, India now led 3-1 before half-time. Malaysia attempted to claw back in the closing stages of the half, but India’s defence, anchored by Harmanpreet, stayed resolute.
Vivek Adds the Fourth
Malaysia sought a response in the third quarter, winning a penalty corner in the opening minutes. However, Pathak pulled off a superb save, preserving India’s two-goal cushion.
India then consolidated their control. In the 38th minute, Manpreet Singh turned provider, setting up Vivek Sagar Prasad, who slotted in India’s fourth goal. The 4-1 scoreline gave India breathing space, though Malaysia tried to rally with quick transitions. Their forwards carved out a couple of promising moves, but the finishing touch eluded them. India ended the third quarter firmly in command.
The final quarter saw India manage the game with composure. Holding a three-goal advantage, they dictated possession and slowed down the tempo when needed. Malaysia pushed numbers forward in desperation, but every incursion was met with strong defensive organisation.
Captain Harmanpreet, marking his 250th international appearance, showcased his leadership by marshalling the backline and keeping the team compact. With no further goals, India closed out a professional 4-1 victory an important step towards securing a spot in the final.
The night was not just about the scoreline. Harmanpreet Singh’s 250th cap was celebrated by teammates and fans alike. Since making his debut in 2015, he has become India’s cornerstone in defence and one of the most feared drag-flickers globally. His journey has epitomised consistency, leadership, and commitment, and the Rajgir crowd fittingly honoured the achievement.
With four points from two Super 4s matches, India sit on top of the pool. Their final Super 4s fixture comes against China on Saturday, September 6, at 7:30 PM IST a clash that will decide their route to the final.
Elsewhere in the day’s action, Bangladesh defeated Kazakhstan 5-1, while China recorded a 3-0 win against Korea, setting up an exciting final round of Super 4s fixtures.
Fans in India can watch all matches live on the Sony Sports Network, while international audiences—including those in the USA, UK, Netherlands, Europe, and North America—can follow the action live on Watch.Hockey.
Summary
India’s 4-1 triumph over Malaysia was a showcase of resilience and attacking flair. After a slow start, the hosts showed their depth, with four different scorers Manpreet, Sukhjeet, Shilanand, and Vivek finding the net. The result not only strengthens India’s campaign but also highlighted the balance of youth and experience in the squad.
As the tournament heads towards its decisive stages, India will aim to build on this momentum. With captain Harmanpreet reaching a historic milestone and the team playing with growing confidence, the Hero Men’s Asia Cup Rajgir Bihar 2025 promises more memorable moments for Indian hockey.
