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India's hockey team, led by skipper Harmanpreet Singh, secured a resounding 4-1 victory over South Korea in the semifinals of the Asian Champions Trophy on Monday, September 16, 2024. The triumph propelled India into the tournament's final, where they will face hosts China.The match commenced with India dominating possession and testing the Korean defense with relentless attacks. Uttam Singh broke the deadlock in the 13th minute, capitalizing on an assist from Araijeet Singh Hundal. Harmanpreet Singh extended India's lead with a penalty corner goal four minutes later.Korea managed to pull one back through Yang Jihun's penalty corner conversion in the 33rd minute. However, India remained unfazed and regained their two-goal advantage when Jarmanpreet Singh scored in the 32nd minute.Harmanpreet Singh sealed the victory with another penalty corner goal in the 45th minute. India's defense, anchored by goalkeeper Suraj Karkera, held firm to deny Korea any further scoring opportunities.In the other semifinal, China defeated Pakistan 2-0 via a shootout after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time. India and China will now face off in Tuesday's final, a rematch of their group stage encounter, which India won 3-0.Pakistan and Korea will battle for the bronze medal in the third-place classification match, also scheduled for Tuesday. Meanwhile, Japan defeated Malaysia 4-2 in a shootout following a 4-4 stalemate in the fifth-sixth place classification match.

India, the bronze medallists at the Paris Olympics, have maintained their impressive form in the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament, securing a spot in the semifinals after registering five consecutive wins in the league stage.The Harmanpreet Singh-led side began their campaign with a 3-0 victory over hosts China, followed by dominant wins over Japan (5-1) and Malaysia (8-1). India then defeated Korea 3-1 before edging out arch-rivals Pakistan 2-1 in a closely contested match.India's performances have been characterized by their excellence in all departments. The forwardline, comprising young talents like Sukhjeet Singh, Abhishek, Uttam Singh, Gurjot Singh, and Araijeet Singh Hundal, has exceeded expectations by scoring crucial field goals. Midfielder Raj Kumar Pal has also shone brightly, contributing with some fine field goals.The experienced trio of Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, and Nilakanta Sharma have been instrumental in controlling the midfield, while the Indian defense has been equally impressive, conceding just four goals. Goalkeepers Krishan Bahadur Pathak and Suraj Karkera have filled the void left by the retirement of PR Sreejesh with aplomb.Harmanpreet Singh, one of the world's top drag-flickers, has led from the front, converting five penalty corners and providing a steady source of goals. He has been ably supported by young Jugraj Singh, who is known for his lightning-fast drag-flicks.However, the knockout stage presents a new challenge for India, and they cannot afford to take Korea lightly. The Koreans are known for their unpredictable style of play and their ability to spring surprises. India's defense will need to be cautious about conceding penalty corners, as Korea possesses a potent drag-flicker in Jihun Yang, the tournament's leading scorer with seven goals.In the other semifinal, Pakistan will face hosts China. The final is scheduled for Tuesday.Harmanpreet Singh has warned his teammates against complacency, despite India's impressive run so far. "We came into this tournament with very little rest or preparations after our Olympic campaign. Despite that, I am happy with how the team has done to progress into the semifinal stage," he said."Korea is a tough team, they defend very well and can counter attack fast and skillfully," added Harmanpreet.

Indian men's hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh continued his impressive form, scoring two penalty corners to lead India to a 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in their final league match of the Asian Champions Trophy 2024.The match was a tense affair, with both teams playing with intensity and determination. Pakistan took the lead in the 8th minute through Ahmad Nadeem, but Harmanpreet equalized just five minutes later with a powerful drag-flick. He then gave India the lead in the 19th minute with another penalty corner conversion.Pakistan fought back in the second half, but India's defense held firm. The Indians also had chances to extend their lead, but they were unable to convert their penalty corners.The match was marred by a heated encounter between Harmanpreet and Pakistan's Ashraf Waheed Rana in the third quarter. Rana shouldered Jugraj Singh inside the Indian circle, prompting Harmanpreet and Jarmanpreet Singh to confront him. The on-field umpires and Pakistan captain Ammad Butt intervened to control the situation, and Rana was shown a yellow card.India's victory was their fifth consecutive in the six-team round-robin competition. They will now face South Korea in the semifinals on Sunday.

India's men's hockey team, fresh off their bronze medal triumph at the Olympics, is aiming to continue their winning streak at the ongoing Asian Champions Trophy. Their next challenge comes in the form of Malaysia, a team they will face on Wednesday in Hulunbuir.India's recent success has been built on their newfound ability to score field goals, a skill that will be crucial against Malaysia. The team has looked more enterprising in this tournament, seizing opportunities up front while maintaining a solid defense.India began their title defense with a 3-0 victory over hosts China, followed by a 5-1 thrashing of Japan. In both matches, the young Indian forwards have impressed, reducing the reliance on star dragflicker and captain Harmanpreet Singh.In contrast, Malaysia, the runners-up in the previous edition, has struggled so far, with one loss and a draw. They will be eager to turn things around against India.

Navdeep Singh's triumph in the men's javelin throw F41 final at the Paris Paralympic Games marked a historic moment for India, securing the nation's 29th and final medal of the campaign. The gold medal victory also marked India's seventh gold medal in the prestigious event.Navdeep's journey to the podium was not without its challenges. Initially awarded a silver medal, his status was upgraded to gold following the disqualification of Iranian athlete Mahdi Olad for displaying a flag during the competition. Despite the controversy, Navdeep's elation was evident as he celebrated his victory, putting the disappointment of the Tokyo Paralympics behind him.Comparisons were drawn between Navdeep and India's Olympic star Neeraj Chopra, who had previously won a gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics and a silver medal in the Paris Olympics. Navdeep's coach, Naval Singh, went so far as to claim that his ward's technique surpassed that of Chopra."Navdeep's technique is even better than Neeraj Chopra's," Singh told Times of India. "If he were in able-bodied athletics, he would have done wonders. But we are all proud of Navdeep. This is just the start for him—he is going to break several records."Navdeep himself acknowledged the role of his coach in his success, crediting Singh for his unwavering support and guidance over the years. "My coach, Naval Singh, has worked a lot with me," Navdeep said. "He has trained me for almost seven years. He has played a big role in my career. Whatever I am today, it's because of him."Reflecting on his winning throw of 47.32 meters in the final, Navdeep revealed a unique strategy: "Falling is my last resort. When I fall, that throw goes well."Navdeep's victory serves as an inspiration to athletes with disabilities, demonstrating that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. His achievement is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human body and the power of sports to transcend boundaries.

India's para-athletes have etched their names in history with a record-breaking medal haul of 29 at the Paralympics. This remarkable achievement marks a significant milestone in the country's Paralympic journey, surpassing the previous record of 19 medals in Tokyo.The contingent of 84 athletes showcased exceptional determination and talent, with established stars delivering on expectations and new faces making their mark. Seven of the 29 medals were gold, a first for India, which has only recently emerged as a force in Paralympic sports.Track and field events proved to be a major source of success, with 17 medals, including a bronze for sprinter Preethi Pal in the women's 100m T35 class. Pal's achievement is particularly inspiring, as she was born with weak legs that have progressively worsened.Another first-ever medal came in judo, with Kapil Parmar securing a bronze in the men's 60kg J1 class. Parmar's story is one of resilience, having overcome a life-altering accident in his childhood.Archery and club throw also contributed significantly to India's medal tally. Harvinder Singh won gold in archery, while Dharambir and Pranav Soorma finished first and second in the club throw event.Armless archer Sheetal Devi, who uses her legs to shoot, became a crowd favorite with her mixed team bronze. Her determination and spirit inspired millions, demonstrating that anything is possible with perseverance.Defending champions Sumit Antil and Avani Lekhara lived up to expectations, winning gold in javelin throw and air rifle shooting, respectively. Badminton player Kumar Nitesh also claimed gold, overcoming a train accident that resulted in the loss of his leg.India's success at the Paralympics is a testament to the government's increased investment in training, recovery, and support staff. The Target Olympic Podium Scheme has played a crucial role in providing resources to para-athletes.While India has made significant progress, there is still room for improvement. Creating a pool of para swimmers would enhance the country's chances of finishing in the top 10 at future Paralympics.

India's Hockey Champions Reignite with Commanding Win in Asian Champions TrophyThe Indian men's hockey team commenced their title defense in the Asian Champions Trophy with an emphatic 3-0 victory over hosts China in Hulunbuir, China. The triumph marks a promising start for the team, which recently secured a second consecutive Olympic bronze medal.India's dominance was evident from the outset, with Sukhjeet Singh opening the scoring in the 14th minute. Uttam Singh extended the lead in the 27th minute, and Abhishek sealed the victory with a spectacular reverse hit just two minutes into the second half.The Indian defense proved impenetrable, thwarting China's attempts to penetrate their ranks. The team's cohesive play and clinical finishing were a testament to their preparation and determination.Last year, India emerged victorious in the tournament on home soil, becoming the only team to claim four titles in its history. This year's triumph sets the stage for another successful campaign.In other matches, Malaysia and Pakistan played out a thrilling 2-2 draw, while Japan and Korea engaged in a high-scoring affair that ended in a 5-5 stalemate.India will face Japan in their second pool match on Monday, aiming to maintain their winning momentum. The team's performance in the Asian Champions Trophy will serve as a valuable test ahead of the upcoming Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.

The Paris Paralympic Games 2024 concluded with India achieving its most successful campaign ever, securing 29 medals, including seven golds, nine silvers, and 13 bronzes. This remarkable performance placed India at the 18th position in the points table, surpassing several top nations.India's medal haul was led by track-and-field, which contributed 17 medals, including four golds. Navdeep Singh's gold medal in the men's javelin throw F41 classification was particularly noteworthy, as he originally finished with a silver but was upgraded to gold after the disqualification of Iran's Sadegh Beit Sayah for displaying an objectionable flag. Simran also added a bronze in the women's 200m (T12) event, setting a personal best time.India's success in Paris was a testament to the significant progress made in para-sports in the country. The team outperformed traditional Paralympic powerhouses such as Switzerland, Belgium, South Korea, Turkey, and Argentina, finishing among the top 20 nations in the world.In comparison, Paralympic heavyweights China, Great Britain, USA, and Italy continued to dominate, finishing among the top 10 nations. India's performance in Paris sets the stage for an even stronger showing at the 2028 LA Para Games.

Indian shot-putter Hokato Sema, a landmine blast survivor, has etched his name in history by securing a bronze medal for India at the Paralympic Games in Paris. The 40-year-old Army man from Dimapur, Nagaland, achieved his career-best throw of 14.65 meters in the men's F57 category final on Friday.Sema's journey to the podium has been marked by resilience and determination. In 2002, while participating in an anti-terrorist operation in Jammu & Kashmir's Chowkibal, he lost his left leg in a landmine blast. However, this setback did not deter him from pursuing his passion for sports.In 2016, at the age of 32, Sema was encouraged by a senior army official at the Pune-based Artificial Limb Centre to take up shot put. He quickly showed promise and soon began competing in national para athletics championships.At the Paralympics, Sema started with a mediocre throw of 13.88 meters. But he quickly found his rhythm, touching the 14-meter mark on his second throw and improving further with a heave of 14.40 meters. His best throw came in his fourth attempt, surpassing his personal best of 14.49 meters and securing him the bronze medal.Iran's Yasin Khosravi, the two-time para world champion and Hangzhou Para Games gold medalist, clinched the top spot with a Paralympic record of 15.96 meters. Brazil's Thiago Dos Santos took the silver with his best throw of 15.06 meters.Sema's success is a testament to his indomitable spirit and the power of sports to transform lives. He has become an inspiration for countless others who have faced adversity and overcome challenges.