New Delhi– Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated the Indian men’s hockey team for their emphatic 4-1 victory over defending champions South Korea in the final of the Asia Cup 2025, held in Rajgir, Bihar.
With this win, India not only clinched their fourth Asia Cup title, but also secured direct qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 to be held in Belgium and the Netherlands.
India’s latest title adds to their previous triumphs in 2003, 2007, and 2017, cementing their position as one of the continent’s hockey powerhouses. Despite the defeat, South Korea remains the most successful team in Asia Cup history, with five titles (1994, 1999, 2009, 2013, and 2022).
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Modi praised the team’s achievement: “Congratulations to our Men’s Hockey Team for their splendid win in the Asia Cup 2025 held in Rajgir, Bihar. This win is even more special because they have defeated the defending champions, South Korea! This is a proud moment for Indian hockey and Indian sports. May our players continue to scale even greater heights and bring more glory to the nation!”
PM Modi also extended his appreciation to the Bihar government and the people of Rajgir for hosting the tournament successfully: “I would also like to appreciate the Government and people of Bihar, whose efforts have ensured Rajgir hosted a brilliant tournament and has become a vibrant sporting hub.”
Dominant Final Performance
India dominated the final from the opening whistle, with Sukhjeet Singh drawing first blood. Dilpreet Singh further extended the lead with goals in the 28th and 45th minutes, while Amit Rohidas added a fourth in the 50th minute. South Korea’s Son Dain managed a consolation goal late in the final quarter, but the match had already tilted firmly in India’s favor.
Undefeated Champions
India remained undefeated throughout the tournament, with five wins and one draw. Under the leadership of Harmanpreet Singh, the team dominated the group stage with three straight wins. In the Super 4s, they continued their fine form with convincing victories over Malaysia (4-1) and China (7-0), while playing out a 2-2 draw against South Korea.
Leaders Across the Aisle Join in Celebration
Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya also congratulated the team, writing on X:
“Outstanding performance! Hearty congratulations to the Indian Hockey Team for defeating Korea 4-1 in the final of the Asia Cup in Rajgir and winning the champion’s title. You all have set an example of excellent play throughout the tournament. Heartfelt best wishes to everyone.”
Congress General Secretary and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed the national pride, calling it an “extremely joyful and proud moment”:
“India has created history by winning the Hockey Asia Cup for the fourth time. Along with this, India has also qualified for the World Cup. Hearty congratulations and best wishes to Team India.”
With this triumph, Indian hockey once again finds itself on an upward trajectory—powered by disciplined leadership, rising talent, and a renewed sense of purpose on the international stage. (Source: IANS)
