The stage is set for the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy, starting on 8th September at the stunning Moqi Hockey Training Base, overlooking the Nierji Dam in Hulunbuir, Inner Mongolia, China. Paris Olympic bronze medallists India enter the tournament as favourites, aiming to defend their title. Other nations that will be participating in the tournament are China, Japan, Pakistan, Korea, and Malaysia.
India eyes defending the title
Last year, in the 7th edition of ACT, India secured the championship on home soil, becoming the only team to win the title four times in the tournament’s history. Team captain Harmanpreet Singh is determined to maintain India’s dominance in the Asian Champions Trophy.
Building momentum for the future
Harmanpreet highlighted the significance of this tournament. He said, “The Asian Champions Trophy last year gave us the momentum heading into the Asian Games and eventually the Olympic podium finish. This year, we aim to kick off the new Olympic cycle by winning this tournament.”.
India will rely on a mix of experienced players and young talents. Harmanpreet emphasised the team’s attacking prowess and penalty corners as key strengths, while the structured defence, particularly against Japan, Malaysia, and Pakistan, will be crucial. He also noted the importance of the tournament for earning world-ranking points.
Tournament schedule for India
India’s campaign begins with a match against hosts China on 8th September, followed by a face-off against Japan the next day. After a rest day, India will take on last year’s runners-up Malaysia on 11th September, then Korea on the 12th. A much-anticipated clash with archrivals Pakistan is scheduled for 14th September. The semi-finals and final set for 16th and 17th September.
India’s Matches in Men’s Hockey Asian Champions Trophy 2024
| Day and Date | Teams | Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, 08 Sep 2024 | India vs. China | 15:30 |
| Monday, 09 Sep 2024 | India vs. Japan | 13:15 |
| Wednesday, 11 Sep 2024 | Malaysia vs. India | 13:15 |
| Thursday, 12 Sep 2024 | Korea vs. India | 13:15 |
| Saturday, 14 Sep 2024 | India vs. Pakistan | 13:15 |
The Indian team is in great shape
Having arrived in Moqi on 4th September, the Indian team is in great shape for the tournament. “We’ve had good practice time on the pitch, and the weather suits us well, though it gets a bit chilly in the evenings. The facilities are amazing, and the excitement for hosting the first international tournament here is palpable,” Vice-Captain Vivek Prasad said.
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