In a remarkable display of skill and resilience, India’s junior hockey team secured the bronze medal at the Junior Hockey World Cup after a breathtaking comeback against Argentina. Trailing 0-2 in the early stages of the third-place playoff, India’s young stars rallied spectacularly to score four unanswered goals, ultimately winning 4-2. In recognition of this achievement, Hockey India announced that each medal-winning player will receive ₹5 lakh, while support staff will be awarded ₹2.5 lakh each.

India had faced disappointment in the semifinals, losing 1-5 to Germany and missing out on a place in the final. However, the team showed immense determination in the bronze medal match, refusing to succumb to early setbacks. Even as the fourth quarter began with India two goals behind, their relentless attacks completely overturned Argentina’s advantage in the final fifteen minutes.

The match saw Argentina start aggressively, taking an early lead in the 3rd minute through Nicolás Ruriguez. Despite India’s efforts, the first half remained scoreless beyond that, and neither side could find the net in the second quarter. Argentina extended their lead to 2-0 in the 44th minute with a strike from Santiago Fernandez, leaving India with a daunting task in the final quarter.

India’s response, however, was nothing short of extraordinary. A flurry of attacks left Argentina’s defence scrambling. Ankit Pal reduced the deficit in the 49th minute, followed closely by Manjeet Singh, who restored parity in the 52nd minute. Sarvanand Tiwari then gave India the lead at 57 minutes, and finally, Anmol Ekka sealed the victory in the 58th minute, confirming India’s bronze medal triumph.

Match Summary: