Rajgir (Bihar): The Indian men's hockey team beat South Korea 4-1 in the Asia Cup final on Sunday, lifting the trophy and qualifying for next year's World Cup.

Sukhjeet Singh opened the scoring in the very first minute, giving India an immediate advantage. Dilpreet Singh added a brace with goals in the 28th and 45th minutes, while Amit Rohidas netted the final goal in the 50th minute. South Korea, defending their 2022 title, scored their sole goal through Dain Son in the 51st minute.

India ended the tournament unbeaten, with five wins and one draw. Led by Harmanpreet Singh, the team won all three pool matches. In the Super 4s, India defeated Malaysia 4-1 and China 7-0, after a 2-2 draw against South Korea.

Historic fourth Asia Cup title

This victory marks India’s fourth Asia Cup triumph, following wins in 2003, 2007 and 2017. South Korea have won the tournament five times — in 1994, 1999, 2009, 2013 and 2022.

World Cup next

The next Men’s Hockey World Cup will be held in Belgium and the Netherlands from August 14-30, 2026.