In a remarkable display, the Indian junior men's hockey team triumphed over Malaysia with a score of 3-1 in the first semi-final of the AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026, moving one step closer to defending their title. Captain Anmol Ekka showcased his skills by scoring two goals from penalty corners, bringing his tournament total to an impressive 16 goals, solidifying his lead in the scoring charts. Additionally, goalkeeper Vivek Lakra, who was named 'Player of the Match', made crucial saves, including stopping a penalty stroke, which helped India maintain control throughout the match.

Next Challenge Awaits

As the defending champions, India aims for their fourth consecutive title and sixth overall. They will face the winner of the second semi-final, which features Pakistan and South Korea.

India's Early Dominance and Malaysia's Defense

The match began with India taking the initiative, with Ajeet Yadav nearly scoring twice within the first two minutes after capitalizing on long balls from deep defense. India earned three penalty corners early on, but Malaysian goalkeeper Amsyar Mohamad Adib made several key saves to keep the score level.

Malaysia struggled to maintain possession in the initial five minutes, primarily focusing on defense. Their first significant attack occurred in the 11th minute, but the Indian defense thwarted their efforts before they could penetrate the circle. A turnover in the 12th minute almost led to India's first goal, but they failed to convert. Malaysia had a chance in the final minute of the quarter, but their shot lacked power and direction, leaving the first quarter scoreless.

Anmol Ekka Breaks the Deadlock

India finally scored in the second quarter, taking the lead in the 16th minute with a penalty corner. Anmol Ekka, positioned at the first battery, executed a powerful flick that beat the Malaysian goalkeeper, giving India a 1-0 advantage.

Malaysia quickly responded, forcing a remarkable save from Lakra in the 17th minute before earning their first penalty corner. However, India's defense held strong, blocking the attempt. India continued to create chances, with another penalty corner in the 23rd minute resulting in a deflected shot that went over the goal. Just before halftime, India nearly doubled their lead on a counterattack, but a shot from a tight angle went wide, leaving the score at 1-0 at the break.

Lakra's Heroics Amidst Pressure

Lakra made a pivotal impact early in the third quarter, executing a stunning double save in the 34th minute as Malaysia ramped up their pressure. India faced a setback when Manmeet Singh Rai received a yellow card in the 36th minute, reducing them to ten players. Malaysia earned another penalty corner in the 39th minute but failed to capitalize on the opportunity.

As Malaysia sought an equalizer, they relied on aerial balls, but India's defense remained organized. Prabhdeep Singh was shown a yellow card in the 41st minute, leaving India with ten players again. Malaysia earned yet another penalty corner in the 45th minute, but their attempt went off-target.

India Secures Victory in the Final Quarter

In the fourth quarter, India finally gained some breathing room. After a Malaysian defensive touch denied them in the 51st minute, India quickly launched another attack, with Sukhvinder finishing the move to extend the lead to 2-0.

Lakra then showcased his skills again, saving a penalty stroke awarded to Malaysia in the 53rd minute, diving sharply to his left to keep the ball out. India transitioned quickly from defense to attack, earning a penalty corner in the 54th minute. Malaysia challenged the decision through a video referral but lost, allowing Anmol to score again with a powerful flick, making it 3-0.

In the closing minutes, Malaysia earned several penalty corners, but Lakra and the Indian defense held firm. Lakra made another impressive diving save in the 58th minute. With just 24 seconds left, Malaysia finally scored a consolation goal through M Rahuul, but India secured a 3-1 victory, advancing to the final.