The Indian men’s hockey team returned from the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 in Malaysia with a silver medal. In a close final in Ipoh on Sunday, India lost 1-0 to Belgium, who lifted the trophy for the first time. Despite the defeat, India showcased strong performance throughout the tournament and remained one of the top teams.
Belgium, ranked world No. 3, won their maiden Sultan Azlan Shah Cup title with a 1-0 victory over India. Thibeau Stockbroekx scored the only goal in the 34th minute. This was Belgium’s second appearance in the tournament, having finished sixth in 2008.
India, ranked world No. 7, returned to the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup after a six-year break. This was their second consecutive runners-up finish, following a final loss to South Korea in 2019. As five-time champions, India remains the second-most successful team in the tournament, after Australia, who have won it ten times. India last won the title in 2010.
The final saw Belgium dominate the early stages of the match. The European side created more scoring opportunities and tested the Indian defence constantly. Goalkeepers Shashikumar Mohith Honnenahalli and Pawan made crucial saves to keep India in the game.
The only goal came shortly after halftime, as Thibeau Stockbroekx converted a well-coordinated team play to give Belgium the lead. India immediately tried to fight back, missing a penalty corner and narrowly avoiding conceding a second goal on a counterattack. Belgium’s Tom Boon also had a goal disallowed for dangerous play.
India pushed hard in the final minutes, seeking an equaliser. Despite several chances, Belgium maintained control, and the score remained 1-0 until the final whistle. Pawan’s outstanding goalkeeping performance prevented a wider margin and kept India in contention until the last moment.
Earlier on Sunday, New Zealand defeated host Malaysia 6-1 to win the bronze medal, completing the podium for the 2025 edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
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