India defeated Korea 4-1 in the third Pool A match of the Men’s Under-18 Asia Cup hockey tournament played in Kakamigahara, Japan yesterday. Captain Ketan Kushwaha delivered a brilliant performance and scored two goals in the 3rd and 36th minutes. Varinder Singh scored another goal in the 5th minute, while Shahrukh Ali sealed the victory with a powerful shot in the 54th minute. Korea’s only goal was scored by captain Yun Jae-hyeok in the 21st minute.
India got off to a flying start, taking a two-goal lead within the first five minutes. Kushwaha scored the first goal from a rebound following a penalty corner, before Varinder doubled the lead soon after.
Korea reduced the deficit to one goal when Jaehyeok converted a penalty corner, but India maintained control of the match. The Indian team created consistent chances and extended their lead in the second half thanks to goals from Kushwaha and Shahrukh Ali.
With this win, India is tied with Korea and Japan on six points in Pool A. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the semifinals. India will face Chinese Taipei in their final pool match tomorrow.
