Asia Hockey Team Rankings: Pakistan beats India to win Men's Asian Champions Trophy 2023

Pakistan Defeats India in Men's Asian Champions Trophy Final

Pakistan and India faced off in a thrilling championship match for the Men's Asian Champions Trophy on 16th December 2023 in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Pakistan started the match strongly, dominating possession and creating several chances. India, however, remained resolute in defense and managed to keep Pakistan at bay. The first half ended goalless, with both teams level 0-0.

Pakistan continued to press in the second half and finally broke the deadlock in the 35th minute when Rooman scored from a penalty corner. Pakistan doubled their lead in the 43rd minute when Rizwan Ali netted a superb individual goal.

India pulled one back in the 50th minute through Lalit Upadhyay but Pakistan held on to secure their victory with a final score of 2-1.

Pakistan's Victory Secures Asian Title

With the win, Pakistan claimed their third Men's Asian Champions Trophy title, their first since 2017. They also secured their spot in the FIH Hockey Pro League for the 2023-24 season.

India, meanwhile, missed out on the chance to win their third consecutive Asian Champions Trophy title but still secured a podium finish with a silver medal.

Match Highlights and Key Moments

• Pakistan dominated possession and created more chances throughout the match.
• Rooman scored a crucial penalty corner goal for Pakistan in the 35th minute.
• Rizwan Ali doubled Pakistan's lead with an excellent individual effort in the 43rd minute.
• Lalit Upadhyay pulled a goal back for India in the 50th minute, but it was not enough to prevent Pakistan from winning.

Post-Match Reactions

Pakistan captain Umar Bhutta praised his team's performance, saying, "We played very well today. We worked hard for this victory and I am proud of my team.".

India captain Harmanpreet Singh said, "We are disappointed to lose but we played a good tournament. We will learn from this experience and come back stronger.".