Dec 04, 2023
Battle on the Horizon: India vs. Korea in Junior World Cup Opener
India’s young hockey maestros are all set for a grand entrance into the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023, igniting the tournament with a high-stakes duel against Asian counterparts, Korea, at the National Hockey Stadium in Bukit Jalil.
With a commendable head-to-head record favoring India – victorious in three out of six encounters, including a resounding 9-1 win during the Men’s Junior Asia Cup semifinal – the anticipation for this World Cup clash is palpable.
Captain Uttam Singh exudes confidence, stating, “The long-awaited World Cup is finally here, and we are confident of a strong start. While we respect the challenge posed by Korea, our singular focus is on executing our game plans and showcasing top-quality hockey on this prestigious stage.”
Coach C R Kumar emphasizes the team’s meticulous preparation, cautioning against underestimating Korea. He underscores the need for strategic caution and leveraging India’s strengths to secure a promising start in the competition.
As two-time Junior World Champions, India’s journey unfolds with subsequent clashes against Spain on December 7 and Canada on December 9 in Pool C. A top-two finish in the pool stage is crucial for securing a coveted spot in the quarterfinals.
Uttam, pivotal in India’s fourth-place finish at the Junior World Cup in 2021, advocates a pragmatic approach, stating, “Our strategy is to take it match by match. A winning start remains our foremost goal, laying the foundation for a steady progression throughout the tournament.”
Mark your calendars for the thrilling quarterfinals, semifinals, and final on December 12, 14, and 16, respectively, as India aspires to etch its name in the annals of hockey history!
