India clinched their fourth Asia Cup title with a commanding 4-1 win over South Korea in the final at Rajgir on Sunday.
Photo: IANS
Former men’s hockey team captain Manpreet Singh has dedicated India’s Asia Cup 2025 triumph to the people of Punjab, a state currently reeling from the devastating flood crisis.
India clinched their fourth Asia Cup title with a commanding 4-1 win over South Korea in the final at Rajgir on Sunday.
Advertisement
The floods in Punjab have displaced over 3 lakh people, with more than 20 lakh residents across 2,050 villages affected in 23 districts. The disaster has also severely damaged the state’s economy, with 176,980 hectares of crop area under water and at least 48 lives lost so far.
Advertisement
“I would like to dedicate this victory to the people of Punjab who are enduring the devastating floods with unimaginable strength and resilience. This triumph is for every victim fighting to rebuild their life, and to the selfless volunteers who are working day and night to rescue, support, and rehabilitate those in need. Your spirit is our true inspiration, and this win is a tribute to the courage of Punjab,” said the veteran midfielder.
The victory not only crowned India as Asia’s top team but also secured direct qualification for the 2026 FIH World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. This was India’s fourth Asia Cup success after previous wins in 2003, 2007, and 2017. South Korea remain the tournament’s most successful team with five titles (1994, 1999, 2009, 2013, and 2022).
India’s campaign in Rajgir was dominant and unbeaten, featuring five wins and a draw. Under captain Harmanpreet Singh, they topped their pool with three straight victories before powering through the Super 4s with emphatic results. The home side defeated Malaysia (4-1) and China (7-0), while drawing 2-2 against South Korea. In the final, they outclassed the same opponents, ending Korea’s title defence.
Advertisement
