India created history in Rajgir, Bihar, by clinching their 4th Asia Cup hockey title, ending an eight-year wait and sealing qualification for the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup.
From sweltering heat to electrifying hockey fever, Rajgir offered unforgettable moments during the Hockey Asia Cup 2025. While India lifted the title, it was the city's passionate fans who stole the show, proving that this ancient cultural hub in Bihar could become a rising center for sports in the country.
India Crowned Champions in Rajgir
On Sunday, a packed crowd at the Rajgir Sports Complex witnessed a spectacular final as India defeated South Korea 4-1 to reclaim the Asia Cup hockey title. The atmosphere was electric, with thousands of fans turning up to support the home team. This triumph marked India’s first Asia Cup win since 2017 in Dhaka, finally putting an end to an eight-year drought.
With this victory, India also secured their spot in the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium.
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— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) September 7, 2025
India reign supreme at the Hero Asia Cup Rajgir, Bihar 2025 with a stellar campaign to lift the crown — their fourth Asia Cup title. ?#HockeyIndia #IndiaKaGame #HumseHaiHockey #HeroAsiaCupRajgir pic.twitter.com/AOfD8wbB2K
Key Moments of the Final
India stamped their authority early on as Sukhjeet Singh scored in the very first minute, setting the tone for a dominant display. Dilpreet Singh continued the charge with goals in the 28th and 45th minutes, while Amit Rohidas sealed the win in the 50th minute. Korea, despite their rich history in the competition, were unable to break India’s rhythm and managed just one consolation goal.
The 4-1 scoreline reflected not only India’s attacking prowess but also the defensive resilience that kept the Koreans at bay.
India’s Asia Cup Journey
India’s latest win takes their overall tally to four Asia Cup titles, putting them just behind South Korea’s five. The journey hasn’t been easy, but India have consistently been a force in the competition. This was India’s ninth appearance in an Asia Cup final, more than any other nation.
Their previous titles came in 2003, 2007, and 2017, and with the latest triumph in 2025, India have cemented their status as one of Asia’s most dominant hockey teams.
Rivals and Historical Context
South Korea remain the most successful nation in the tournament with five titles, while Pakistan — who did not participate this year — have three to their name. Pakistan dominated the early years of the Asia Cup, winning the first three editions (1982, 1985, 1989) by defeating India each time.
Interestingly, India have often been close contenders, finishing runners-up in five editions (1982, 1985, 1989, 1994, and 2013). This long history of intense rivalries makes their 2025 victory even more significant.
Malaysia Clinch Bronze
Earlier in the day, Malaysia overcame China to claim the bronze medal, repeating their third-place finish from 2017. Despite heartbreak in the semifinal — where they surrendered a 3-1 lead against Korea to lose 3-4 — Malaysia bounced back strongly to secure a podium finish.
China, who were one of the surprise performers in the early stages, eventually faltered in the final two matches and had to settle for fourth place.
Captain Harmanpreet Singh’s Reaction
Speaking after the win, captain Harmanpreet Singh praised the team’s all-round performance. “You learn from every match. The plus and minus are always there. But how soon you analyse it, work on it, and apply things — that matters,” he said.
He especially credited the forwards for their clinical finishing: “They did a great job, converting every opportunity into goals. This combination is good, and we will continue it.”
Rewards and Recognition
Following the historic win, Hockey India announced INR 3 lakh each for the players and INR 1.5 lakh for the support staff as a token of appreciation for their hard work and contribution to the victory. Asia Cup Records at a Glance
- South Korea – 5 titles
- India – 4 titles
- Pakistan – 3 titles
Complete List of Asia Cup Winners and Runners-Up
- 1982: Pakistan beat India
- 1985: Pakistan beat India
- 1989: Pakistan beat India
- 1994: Korea beat India
- 1999: South Korea beat Pakistan
- 2003: India beat Pakistan
- 2007: India beat South Korea
- 2009: South Korea beat Pakistan
- 2013: South Korea beat India
- 2017: India beat Malaysia
- 2022: South Korea beat Malaysia
- 2025: India beat South Korea
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