India beats China 4-3 at Hockey Asia Cup; Harmanpreet bags hattrick

In a high-octane opening match of the Hockey Asia Cup 2025, host nation India emerged victorious, defeating a resilient China with a final score of 4-3. The thrilling Pool A encounter, played at Rajgir in Bihar, saw the Indian team display an attacking brand of hockey right from the start. The victory, however, was hard-fought and came down to a dramatic finale, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting tournament ahead.

The undisputed hero of the day was team captain Harmanpreet Singh, who showcased his exceptional drag-flicking skills by scoring a spectacular hat-trick. His three goals, scored in the 20th, 33rd, and 47th minutes of the match, were a testament to his leadership and offensive prowess. Harmanpreet's clinical finishing from penalty corners proved to be the decisive factor in securing the win for India.

The match did not start as smoothly for the hosts as China took an early lead. Despite India's aggressive play and two early penalty corners, it was China who scored the first goal in the 13th minute through Du Shihao, who converted a penalty corner with a brilliant low drag-flick. The ball deflected off an Indian defender's stick and found its way into the net, stunning the home crowd.

However, India responded with determination in the second quarter. Jugraj Singh scored the team's first goal in the 18th minute from a penalty corner to level the score. Just two minutes later, captain Harmanpreet Singh put India ahead with a powerful drag-flick. He then scored his second goal in the 33rd minute, extending the lead to 3-1 from another penalty corner opportunity, seemingly putting India in a comfortable position.

China, however, mounted a spirited comeback in the third quarter. The Chinese team played aggressive hockey and created multiple scoring opportunities, finding success in a period where India's defense and goalkeeping appeared vulnerable. They scored two goals in quick succession, with Chen Benhai and Gao Zhisheng finding the back of the net to bring the score to 3-3, setting up a tense final quarter.

The match-winning goal came from none other than Harmanpreet Singh. In the 47th minute, after a penalty corner was awarded to India, the captain's first two shots were blocked by the Chinese goalkeeper and defense. However, on his third attempt, Harmanpreet unleashed a powerful drag-flick that rocketed into the goal, completing his hat-trick and securing a crucial 4-3 victory for India in their opening match.