2018 Asian Men’s Hockey Champions Trophy: India fail to avenge their Asian Games loss against Malaysia

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India and Malaysia shared the spoils at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Muscat on Tuesday after the Men in Blue failed to convert their chances. India, however, still sit on the top of the table with 10 points from 4 matches and an unassailable +22 goal difference.

India failed to overcome Malaysia's dogged resistance
India failed to overcome Malaysia’s dogged resistance

At the 8th minute, Dilpreet got a wonderful opportunity to break the deadlock when he found himself in a one-on-one position with the goalkeeper, but he couldn’t connect his shot properly. India got their first penalty corner at the 10th minute when Akashdeep’s shot from the right side of the goal hit the rival’s defender legs. However, Harmanpreet’s shot down the center was saved comfortably by the keeper.

India’s fluid attacks from the wings and dominating possession couldn’t reward them a goal as the first quarter ended with the scoreline reading 0-0. Unlike the frenetic pace of the first quarter, the second quarter was a tepid one with both the sides squandering the opportunities.

The third quarter had the same story as both the sides came up with a safety-first approach. However, India came with all guns blazing in the fourth quarter to continue their winning run. But, that couldn’t be the case as the scoreline remained the same at the full-time whistle.

India will next take on South Korea on 24th October at 2240 IST. The viewers can watch the game live on Star Sports 2, Star Sports HD 2, and Hotstar.