'Unwavering dedication,' PM Modi praises Indian Men's Hockey team for Hockey5s Asia Cup win

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Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to the Indian Men's Hockey team for their triumphant performance in the Hockey5s Asia Cup. India's men's hockey team secured the championship title in the first-ever Men's Hockey5s Asia Cup by clinching a penalty shootout victory over Pakistan in the final. The match ended in a 4-4 tie at the final whistle, with India ultimately prevailing 2-0 in the penalty shootout.

PM Modi tweeted, “Champions at the Hockey5s Asia Cup! Congratulations to the Indian Men's Hockey Team on a phenomenal victory. It is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our players and with this win, we have also secured our spot at the Hockey5s World Cup in Oman next year. The grit and determination of our players continues to inspire our nation." India initiated the final with great energy, quickly advancing into Pakistan's territory.

However, Pakistan managed to withstand India's offensive and began posing threats from the left side. Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera played a pivotal role in making crucial saves, but Pakistan eventually broke through, with Abdul Rehman (5') securing the opening goal of the match. India, however, didn't remain silent for long, and Jugraj Singh (7') swiftly provided the equalizer.

Just three minutes later, India took the lead when Maninder Singh (10') scored with a reverse hit from a distance. Pakistan's Captain Abdul Rana (13') and Zikriya Hayat (14') followed with two consecutive late goals, and the first half concluded with Pakistan leading 3-2. Also Read: Hockey 5s Asia Cup 2023: India beat Pakistan in thrilling shootout Trailing by a single goal, India faced the imperative of mounting a swift comeback in the second half.