India clinch fifth Men’s Junior Asia Cup title with 5-3 win over Pakistan

India triumphed over Pakistan in a thrilling Men’s Junior Asia Cup 2024 final, securing a 5-3 victory to win their fifth title on Wednesday. The match, held in Muscat, was a dramatic contest filled with highs and lows, as both teams fought fiercely for the prestigious trophy.

Pakistan initially surged ahead with an early 3-1 lead, thanks to two goals from Sufyan Khan and a third from Hannan Shahid in the third minute. However, India quickly regained their composure, spearheaded by a brilliant performance from Araijeet Singh Hundal, who scored four of India’s five goals.

Despite the early setback, India mounted a determined comeback. After drawing level at 3-3, Hundal’s clinical finishing proved pivotal, as he scored twice more to put India firmly in control.

Hundal, the star of the match, converted three penalty corners in the fourth, 18th, and 54th minutes, adding a field goal in the 47th minute to complete his remarkable performance. Dilraj Singh (19th) was the other goal scorer for India.

For Pakistan, Sufyan Khan’s penalty corner conversions in the 30th and 39th minutes kept their hopes alive, while Shahid’s early goal gave them a brief advantage. However, despite their spirited efforts, Pakistan was unable to regain the lead.