The Indian men's hockey team is set to face China in a crucial Super 4s match at the Asia Cup 2025, which is being held at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar, India. The match is scheduled for today, September 6, 2025, at 7:30 PM IST. This game is of utmost importance as it will determine India's chances of qualifying for the final and securing a spot in the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, to be held in the Netherlands and Belgium.
India currently leads the Super 4s standings. India started the Super 4s stage with a 2-2 draw against defending champions South Korea, a match where they missed several opportunities. However, they bounced back strongly with a 4-1 victory over Malaysia. In the match against Malaysia, Manpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Shailand Lakra, and Vivek Sagar Prasad scored the goals for India.
China, on the other hand, is a team that India cannot afford to underestimate. In their previous encounter in the group stage, India narrowly defeated China 4-3. China has demonstrated its ability to exploit vulnerabilities in India's penalty corner defense and launch swift counterattacks.
A win or a draw against China will guarantee India a place in the Asia Cup 2025 final. However, a loss could jeopardize their chances, depending on the outcome of the match between Malaysia and South Korea. If Malaysia defeats Korea, both Malaysia and China would advance to the final. If the Malaysia vs. Korea game ends in a draw, the goal difference will be the deciding factor, making it crucial for India to avoid a heavy defeat against China.
The Asia Cup 2025 is the 12th edition of the Men's Hockey Asia Cup, a quadrennial international men's field hockey championship of Asia. The winner of this tournament will directly qualify for the 2026 Men's FIH Hockey World Cup. Teams finishing second to sixth will move into the World Cup Qualifiers.
Harmanpreet Singh is captaining the 18-member Indian team. The squad includes experienced players such as Manpreet Singh, Hardik Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Mandeep Singh, and Amit Rohidas.
Live streaming of the India vs. China match will be available on the SonyLiv app and website in India. The match will also be broadcast on the Sony Sports Network.
The Indian team will need to maintain composure and focus to secure a victory against China. The match is being considered a virtual semi-final for India.
