Daijiworld Media Network - Johor (Malaysia)

Johor (Malaysia), Oct 17: The Indian junior men’s hockey team clinched a hard-fought 2-1 victory over hosts Malaysia in their final pool-stage match of the Sultan of Johor Cup 2025, securing their spot in the final against Australia.

India’s goals came from Gurjot Singh (22') and Sourabh Anand Kushwaha (48'), while Malaysia responded with a lone strike from Naaveenesh Panicker (43').

With a place in the final on the line, India came out aggressive, launching early waves of attack. Malaysia, however, refused to sit back and challenged the Indian defence, which held firm. The first quarter ended goalless despite intense action from both sides.

In the second quarter, India turned up the pressure, hitting the crossbar before finally breaking through. A rebound off a penalty corner allowed Gurjot Singh to fire in the opener in the 22nd minute, putting India 1-0 up going into halftime.

After the break, Malaysia stepped up their game and began applying pressure. Their persistence paid off in the 43rd minute when Panicker slotted home the equaliser, setting up a tense final quarter.

India responded with composure and urgency. Just five minutes into the final period, Kushwaha struck from close range, restoring India’s lead. Despite Malaysia’s late surge and a series of attacking moves, India’s defence stood strong to seal the win.

With this victory, India maintains its strong record over Malaysia in the tournament’s history and now moves into the final against Australia, scheduled for October 18 at 6:05 PM IST.