In a gripping encounter at the Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Super 4s stage, India and South Korea played out a dramatic 2-2 draw at the Bihar Sports University Hockey Stadium in Rajgir. The match, filled with momentum swings, tactical intensity, and last-minute heroics, kept fans on edge and showcased the fierce competitiveness of Asian hockey’s top contenders.

India entered the Super 4s with confidence, having topped Pool A with wins over China, Japan, and a record-breaking 15-0 rout of Kazakhstan. Led by captain Harmanpreet Singh, the team looked poised to carry that momentum forward. But against defending champions South Korea, India faced a stern test of discipline and resilience.

Early Lead and Korean Comeback

India struck first in the eighth minute through Hardik Singh, who capitalized on a midfield turnover and executed a brilliant solo run, weaving past defenders before slotting the ball past the Korean goalkeeper. The goal gave India an early 1-0 lead and set the tone for a fast-paced first quarter.

South Korea responded swiftly. In the 12th minute, a foul by Jugraj Singh inside the circle led to a penalty stroke. Jihun Yang stepped up and fired a powerful shot into the top corner, leveling the score at 1-1. Just two minutes later, Korea earned a penalty corner, and Hyeonhong Kim converted with a precise drag flick, giving Korea a 2-1 lead and flipping the momentum.

India’s Missed Chances and Defensive Struggles

The second and third quarters saw India push hard for an equalizer. Manpreet Singh and Sumit orchestrated attacks from midfield, while Abhishek and Sukhjeet Singh made threatening runs into the circle. Despite earning multiple penalty corners, India failed to convert, with Korean goalkeeper Jaehan Kim producing a series of spectacular saves.

Harmanpreet Singh’s drag flicks were blocked, and Jarmanpreet Singh’s sharp-angled shot was denied by Kim’s pads. The Korean defense remained compact and disciplined, frustrating India’s forwards and intercepting key passes. India’s inability to capitalize on set pieces and circle penetrations kept them trailing heading into the final quarter.

Mandeep’s Late Equalizer

India’s persistence finally paid off in the 53rd minute. Sukhjeet Singh delivered a pinpoint pass to Mandeep Singh, who tapped the ball into an open net to level the score at 2-2. The goal was a result of sustained pressure and quick ball movement, and it reignited hopes of a late winner.

In the closing minutes, both teams earned penalty corners but failed to convert. A last-gasp effort by Sukhjeet Singh, assisted by a lobbed pass from Abhishek, narrowly missed the post. The final whistle confirmed a hard-fought draw, with both sides earning a point in their Super 4s opener.

Key Takeaways and Road Ahead

While India would have preferred a win, the draw keeps them in contention for a spot in the final. The team showed grit and attacking intent but must address its finishing and defensive lapses. Hardik Singh’s early goal and Mandeep’s late equalizer were highlights, but missed opportunities and costly errors nearly derailed the campaign.

South Korea, meanwhile, demonstrated their pedigree with clinical execution and defensive solidity. Their ability to absorb pressure and strike on set pieces remains a key strength. The draw halts India’s winning streak but also underscores the depth of competition in the Super 4s.

India will next face Malaysia and China in their remaining Super 4 matches. With the top two teams advancing to the final, every point is crucial. Coach Craig Fulton will be looking to fine-tune the team’s penalty corner routines and shore up defensive coordination.

Conclusion: A Battle of Equals

India’s 2-2 draw with South Korea was a showcase of high-quality hockey, strategic depth, and individual brilliance. It was a match that tested nerves, rewarded persistence, and reminded fans why the Hockey Asia Cup remains one of the continent’s most thrilling tournaments.

As the Super 4s continue, India remains in the hunt. With talent, experience, and the hunger to win, the Men in Blue have what it takes to bounce back. The road to the final is still open—and if this match is any indication, the journey promises to be unforgettable.