India's Resounding Victory Secures Semifinal Spot in Hero Asian Champions Trophy

India qualified for the semifinal of the Hero Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament after a decisive 8-1 victory over Malaysia, marking their third consecutive preliminary round win. Key players like Raj Kumar Pal and Araijeet Singh Hundal led India to the top of the standings with nine points from three wins.

Defending champions India have secured their place in the semifinal of the Hero Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament following an overpowering 8-1 victory against Malaysia on Wednesday. This win marks their third consecutive success in the preliminary rounds.

The standout performers included Raj Kumar Pal, who scored in the 3rd, 25th, and 33rd minutes, and Araijeet Singh Hundal, with goals in the 6th and 39th minutes. Additional goals by Jugraj Singh, Harmanpreet Singh, and Uttam Singh further solidified India's dominant performance.

Malaysia's solitary strike came from Akhimullah Anuar in the 34th minute. India now leads the six-team tournament with nine points from three wins, playing in a round-robin format. The top four teams will progress to the semifinals scheduled for September 16, followed by the final on September 17.

(With inputs from agencies.)