Belgium Wins Sultan Azlan Shah Cup Hockey Title

On November 30, Belgium won the prestigious Sultan Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament by defeating India 1-0 in a thrilling final. India had to settle for the silver medal as Belgium secured their first-ever Sultan Azlan Shah title. Belgium was only participating in the tournament for the second time.

After a dominant 14-3 win over Canada on November 29, India entered the final but was unfortunate as they failed to convert any of their three penalty corners into goals. Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas, and Sanjay had been successful with penalty corners throughout the tournament, but they couldn't break through Belgium's defense in the final. This loss came after a 2-3 defeat in the league stage against the European team, marking India’s second loss in the competition.

With experienced players like Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh resting during the tournament, the responsibility shifted to the young players, who performed admirably, minimizing the margin of loss. Both teams displayed tactical gameplay, with Belgium maintaining possession of the ball longer and starting strong. Their attacking strategies troubled India's defense and forced the Indian goalkeeper into several close saves.

Belgium was awarded two penalty corners early in the match but failed to convert them. India struggled initially but regained their rhythm as the game progressed, though Belgium's midfield control continued to put pressure on them. At halftime, both teams had failed to open their goal account.

In the second half, Belgium played with more intensity, applying pressure on India. India managed to create a few good moves, but Belgium's defense held firm. In the 34th minute, Thibault Stockbroeks scored the only goal of the match, leaving India with little time to equalize. Despite their best efforts in the final quarter, India could not breach Belgium's defense, and Belgium emerged victorious with a 1-0 win.