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Indian hockey reached a historic feat on a historic Sunday at the AHF Junior Asia Cup in Moqi, China, as the men’s and women’s junior sides both claimed gold medals. The stupendous success is likely to unleash the talent in India and reaffirm the sport’s position of primacy in junior hockey in Asia. It’s a blue wash! Initially, the Indian girls managed a narrow 1-0 win over China to play the final. Sanika Chandrakant Mane struck the goal in the 17th minute by deflecting a long slap-push past the Chinese goalkeeper.
The Indian girls then capitalised on their imposing defence to withstand the hosts’ relentless attack and register a win on the day. It was an unprecedented third consecutive continental crown for the women’s team, who remained unbeaten in the tournament, under the guidance of head coach Tim White.
Fresh from the women’s title success, the men’s junior team created history by surpassing their 2014 and 2021 winning efforts to beat South Korea 4-1 in the final. The Indians led from the front with Ajeet Yadav (corner, 9th min), captain Anmol Ekka (15th min) and Prabhdeep Singh (30th min) striking in the first half before a late consolation from a Lee Minhyeok penalty stroke. India thus earned a record sixth Junior Asia Cup title.
Teams qualified for the FIH Junior World Cups to be played next year were also awarded the trophy. The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, also congratulated the teams for the achievement and also declared cash prizes for the players as well as officials.
Verified Sources: International Hockey Federation (FIH), Asian Hockey Federation (AHF), Olympics.com, ANI News, Hockey India.
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