In a spectacular opening match of the FIH Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023, Arijit Singh Hundal’s hat-trick paved the way for a resounding 4-2 victory for the Indian junior men’s hockey team against their Asian rivals, Korea. The intense showdown unfolded at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, setting a strong tone for India’s World Cup campaign.
Arijit Singh Hundal (11′, 16′, 41′) showcased exceptional prowess, scoring three crucial goals, while Amandeep (30′) added another to India’s tally. Korea responded with goals from Dohyun Lim (38′) and Minkwon Kim (45′).
The match commenced with both teams vying for control in each other’s halves. India’s initial attack saw Sudeep Chirmako’s reverse flick narrowly missing the goal post. However, India gained momentum, securing a penalty corner that Arijit capitalized on in the 11th minute, breaking the deadlock.
India’s dominance continued into the second quarter as Arijit extended the lead with a brilliant field goal. Amandeep further bolstered the score, propelling India to a commanding 3-0 lead. Korea, seeking a comeback, secured a penalty corner in the 29th minute, but failed to convert it into a goal. Amandeep’s goal took India’s lead to 3 – 0.
The second half saw Korea mounting a spirited offense, with Dohyun’s penalty corner strike securing their first goal in the 38th minute. India responded swiftly, with Arijit completing his hat-trick through a reverse flick in the 41st minute.
Despite Korea’s late efforts, including Minkwon Kim’s converted penalty corner in the third quarter, India clinched the match with a final score of 4-2. India’s next challenge is against Spain on Thursday, December 7, at 1730 hrs IST, a match set to be live-streamed on Sports 18 and JioCinema.
