Indian Men's Hockey Team Secures Victory in Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Opener

India, 5 January 2026 — The Indian men's hockey team began their campaign in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup with a convincing win over South Korea in Ipoh, Malaysia. The match, held on 4 January, saw India dominate South Korea with a score of 4-2. Harmanpreet Singh led the charge with two goals, while Akashdeep Singh and Mandeep Singh each contributed a goal.
The tournament, which features strong teams from around the world, serves as an important preparatory event for the upcoming Asian Games. India's performance in the opener underscores their readiness and determination to excel on the international stage.
Coach Craig Fulton expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, highlighting their tactical discipline and effective execution of strategies. He emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum throughout the tournament.
The next match for India is scheduled against Japan, a team known for its agility and speed. The encounter is expected to test India's defensive robustness and strategic planning. The Sultan Azlan Shah Cup is ongoing, with India aiming to secure a top position.
India's victory in the opening match sets a positive tone for the rest of the tournament as they aim to build on this momentum to achieve success in upcoming fixtures.