India defeated Pakistan 3-1 in the final to win the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship 2026 in Muscat. Both India and Pakistan qualified for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup.
Muscat, Oman: The Indian Sub-Junior Men’s Hockey Team produced a commanding display to defeat arch-rivals Pakistan 3-1 in the final and lift the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship 2026 title in Muscat.
With the victory, India completed an unbeaten campaign, finishing as Asian champions after topping the Elite Pool and dominating throughout the tournament.
India Dominate the Final
India controlled the match from the opening whistle with disciplined defending and quick attacking moves.
Romit Pal opened the scoring in the fifth minute to hand India a 1-0 lead at halftime.
The second half saw India tighten their grip on the contest as captain Ketan Kushwaha doubled the advantage in the 12th minute before Shahrukh Ali struck just a minute later to make it 3-0.
Pakistan managed a late consolation goal through Muhammad Usman in the 16th minute, but India’s defence remained solid to secure a memorable 3-1 victory.
India Qualify for Historic World Cup
By reaching the final, India and Pakistan have both secured qualification for the inaugural FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup, marking another major milestone for youth hockey in the region.
India’s impressive run throughout the championship highlighted the team’s attacking strength, disciplined structure, and consistency against the continent’s top sides.
Women’s Team Wins Silver
India also enjoyed success in the women’s competition, with the Sub-Junior Women’s Hockey Team finishing runners-up after losing a closely contested final to China.
The silver medal ensured that both Indian teams returned home with podium finishes from the championship.
Hockey India Announces Cash Rewards
Following the outstanding performances, Hockey India announced cash rewards for both squads.
- Each player of the gold medal-winning men’s team will receive Rs 2 lakh.
- Each member of the men’s support staff will receive Rs 1 lakh.
- Every player of the silver medal-winning women’s team will receive Rs 1 lakh.
- Members of the women’s support staff will be awarded Rs 50,000 each.
The rewards recognize the remarkable achievements of India’s young hockey stars on the continental stage and provide further encouragement ahead of the upcoming Youth Hockey5s World Cup.
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