In a gripping Semi-Final clash at the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023, the Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team experienced a heart-wrenching 1-4 loss against a resilient German side in Kuala Lumpur. Despite the setback, led by Uttam Singh, the team remains determined as they gear up for the battle for third place.
The opening quarter set the stage for intense competition as the Indian Team, captained by Uttam Singh, secured two early penalty corners. However, it was Germany that struck first with Ben Hasbach’s goal (8’). The resilient Indian side responded swiftly, leveling the score at 1-1 with a remarkable field goal from Sudeep Chirmako (11’).
The second quarter witnessed several opportunities for India through penalty corners, but the team struggled to convert them into goals. Germany seized a late penalty corner opportunity, with Ben Hasbach securing his second goal (30’), leading 2-1 at halftime.
Despite India’s efforts in the fourth quarter, the German defense held firm. Two consecutive penalty corners offered hope for India, but they couldn’t break through. Florian Spirling (58’) sealed Germany’s victory with a fourth goal, concluding the game at 1-4.
Looking ahead, India aims to secure third place in a face-off against the loser of the second Semi-Final between France and Spain on December 16th at 1530hrs IST.
Hockey is our national game and the lack of attention on the sport has lead to the downfall of the Indian team. Once invincibles in the sport, today no-one recognises our legacy. Reforms have to be made and support has to be extended to our budding talents, so that we regain our long lost respect and dominance.
