Asia Cup Hockey: India defeat Bangladesh 9-1 to set up a semi-final clash with Malaysia

Rupinder Pal Singh scored four goals for India

Indian men’s hockey team defeated Bangladesh 9-1 in their final group game of the Asia Cup in Ipoh to maintain their 100% winning record in the tournament so far. Drag flickers Rupinder Pal Singh and VR Raghunath scored hat-tricks as India ran Bangladesh ragged all through the game.

Event though India had already qualified for the semi-finals, they needed to make this one count to avoid the possibilty of facing arch rivals Pakistan in semis. They did so in an astounding fashion, thoroughly dominating the proceedings. India will be facing Malaysia in the semi-finals now en route to gain their qualification for the World Cup next year in The Hague, by winning this Asia Cup.

While India controlled the entire first half, Bangladesh had their moments in the second half but were let down by lacklustre finishing abilities. India were able to convert six out of the ten penalty corners awarded to them.

Nithin Thimmaiah and Mandeep Singh scored a field goal each in addition to the four from Rupinder and three from Raghunath.

Bangladesh skipper Chayan scored the only goal from Bangladesh side through a penalty corner.

Earlier, in India’s second group match, Roelant Oltmans’s side registered a shock 2-0 victory over defending champions South Korea.