Belgium won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Hockey tournament title on Sunday, defeating India 1-0 in a thrilling final. India had to settle for a silver medal due to a goal by Thibau Stockbroekx in the 34th minute of the match.
SPORTS NEWS: The final match of the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Cup 2025 was played thrillingly on Sunday, with Belgium defeating India 1-0 to clinch their first Azlan Shah title. India had to settle for a silver medal due to Thibau Stockbroekx's 34th-minute goal. This was only Belgium's second appearance in the competition, and the team proved its strength by winning the title on this early occasion.
The Thrill of the Final Match
In the final, India initially secured some penalty corner opportunities, but due to Belgium's b defensive line, they could not capitalize on all three occasions. This was India's second loss in the tournament, having previously lost 2-3 to a European team in the league stage. Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas, and Sanjay had performed well in penalty corners during the tournament, but failed to breach Belgium's robust defense in the final.
Some experienced players from the Indian team, such as Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh, were rested for this tournament, which increased the responsibility on the younger players. Belgium displayed aggressive play from the start, maintaining control over the ball. Their strategy involved pressing in the midfield and launching rapid attacks from both flanks, constantly challenging the Indian defense.
Initially, Belgium also earned two penalty corners, but the Indian goalkeeper made excellent saves, keeping the score level. India gradually clawed back into the game and created some good moves, but Belgium's b defense and disciplined play prevented them from scoring.
The decisive moment of the game arrived in the 34th minute when Thibau Stockbroekx scored a goal. This goal put India under pressure. In the final quarter, India made several attempts to equalize, but it was not possible to breach Belgium's defense. Belgium's team played with composure and strategy until the final minute of the match, defeating India.
