India overcame an early deficit to defeat Malaysia 4-1 in aSuper 4s match of the Asia Cup 2025, thanks to a strong midfield performance led by veteran Manpreet Singh. After conceding a goal in the second minute, India responded with goals from Manpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Shilanand Lakra, and Vivek Sagar Prasad.

Malaysia started strongly, with Shafiq Hassan scoring in the second minute. The Indian defense appeared disorganized in the opening minutes, struggling to contain the Malaysian attack. However, India gradually clawed their way back into the match, with Dilpreet Singh and Harmanpreet Singh gaining control in the midfield. India's persistence paid off in the second quarter when they earned a series of penalty corners. Although the first four attempts were unsuccessful, Manpreet Singh capitalized on a rebound from the fifth penalty corner to equalize.

Manpreet Singh's goal shifted the momentum, and India took the lead just two minutes later through Sukhjeet Singh. Shilanand Lakra then extended India's lead, scoring a brilliant goal after receiving a well-placed pass. Vivek Sagar Prasad added another goal in the third quarter, solidifying India's优势.

India's coach, Craig Fulton, expressed his satisfaction with the team's comeback and overall performance. He highlighted the quality of the second and third goals, as well as the team's ability to score from a rebound off a penalty corner.

Manpreet Singh, a four-time Olympian, has been a key player for India since his debut in 2011. He captained the team to a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, India's first Olympic medal in hockey since 1980. In 2017, he was appointed captain of the Indian hockey team and was awarded the FIH Player of the Year in 2019.

India's victory places them at the top of the Super 4s stage. They will face China in their next match. Malaysia will play South Korea.