The Indian junior men’s hockey team wrapped up their campaign at the 4 Nations Tournament in Berlin with a spirited 2-1 victory over Australia, securing third place in the competition. The match, held on June 25, showcased India’s resilience and tactical discipline after a challenging group stage.
Rohit and Ajeet Yadav Seal the Comeback
After a goalless first half marked by tight defenses and missed opportunities, Australia broke the deadlock in the 40th minute through a field goal by captain Toby Mallon. However, India responded swiftly:
- Rohit equalized in the 45th minute with a powerful strike off a penalty corner
- Ajeet Yadav netted the winner in the 52nd minute, converting a well-executed open-play move
India’s defense held firm in the final minutes, denying Australia any chance to level the score.
Tournament Recap: A Mixed Bag for India
India’s journey in the round-robin stage was a rollercoaster:
- Lost 1-7 to hosts Germany in the opener
- Bounced back with a 3-1 win over Australia
- Suffered a 1-5 defeat to Spain
Despite the setbacks, the team showed character in the 3rd/4th place playoff, ending the tournament on a high.
What’s Next?
The performance offers valuable experience ahead of upcoming junior international fixtures. With players like Rohit and Ajeet Yadav stepping up under pressure, India’s junior squad continues to build depth and promise for the future.
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