The Indian team's splendid performance continues in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Hockey Tournament. Team India secured its second consecutive victory in the tournament by defeating New Zealand 3-2 in a crucial match on November 27, 2025. Earlier, India had beaten hosts Malaysia 4-3 on November 26.
IND vs NZ: With the help of Selvam Karthi's winning goal in the final quarter, India defeated New Zealand 3-2 in a crucial Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey match on November 27. Earlier, India had beaten hosts Malaysia 4-3 on November 26. Amit Rohidas (4th minute), Sanjay (32nd minute), and Selvam (54th minute) scored for India, while George Baker (42nd and 48th minute) scored two goals for New Zealand.
New Zealand tried to dominate the midfield in the initial minutes, but the Indian defenders gave them no opportunities. India got its first chance in the fourth minute in the form of a penalty corner, which experienced Rohidas converted into a goal. The Indian team was close to scoring another goal, but Abhishek's shot was saved by the Kiwi goalkeeper.
Key Goals in India's Victory
India's goal scorers include:
- Amit Rohidas (4th minute)
- Captain Sanjay (32nd minute)
- Selvam Karthi (54th minute)
George Baker scored two goals for New Zealand in the 42nd and 48th minutes. Selvam Karthi's winning goal in the final quarter proved decisive in securing India's victory.
Brief Match Summary
New Zealand tried to dominate the midfield in the initial minutes, but the Indian defenders gave them no opportunities. In the fourth minute, India got its first chance as a penalty corner, which experienced Rohidas converted to give India the lead. The Indian team was constantly close to scoring, but Abhishek's shot was brilliantly saved by the New Zealand goalkeeper.
In the second quarter, New Zealand was awarded a penalty corner, but the Indian defense remained highly vigilant and precise. India then doubled its lead with Captain Sanjay's penalty corner goal. Meanwhile, two of New Zealand's penalty corners went in vain. In the third quarter, Indian goalkeeper Pawan strengthened the team by saving several important shots, but in the 42nd minute, Baker scored New Zealand's first goal. Just a few minutes later, in the 48th minute, he scored his second goal to equalize the score.
Excitement was at its peak in the final quarter. The Indian team was continuously trying to regain the lead. With six minutes remaining in the match, Selvam Karthi scored the decisive goal from an Abhishek pass, securing a 3-2 victory for India.
