Indian Men's Hockey Team Lose In Final As Belgium Clinch First Sultan Azlan Shah Cup

Last Updated:December 01, 2025, 07:15 IST

Belgium clinched their maiden Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 title, defeating India 1-0 with Thibeau Stockbroekx's decisive goal. India settled for Silver after a tense final.

India lost to Belgium in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup final (HI)

In an entertaining final that lived up to its billing, Belgium defeated India 1-0 in a closely-fought encounter to win the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 in Malaysia. India had to settle for Silver, thanks to Thibeau Stockbroekx’s lone goal of the match in the 34th minute. This victory marks Belgium’s maiden Sultan Azlan Shah title and only their second appearance in one of the most prestigious invitational hockey tournaments on the international calendar.

Unfortunately for India, who entered the match after a high-scoring 14-3 win against Canada on Saturday, they couldn’t convert any of the three penalty corners they earned. Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas, and Sanjay, who had been successful in the PC attack throughout the tournament, were unable to penetrate the Belgian defence.

India’s only defeat in the tournament prior to the final was also against Belgium, who had emerged victorious with a 3-2 win during the league stage.

The match highlighted defensive discipline, with intense midfield battles. With experienced stars like Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh rested for the tournament, the responsibility fell on the younger players, who managed to keep the game close against a world-class team like Belgium.

How India Lost To Belgium?

The first half ended goalless but was filled with high drama. Both teams showcased their tactical prowess, with Belgium starting stronger, maintaining better ball possession. Their attacks troubled the Indian defence from both flanks, forcing a couple of sharp saves from the Indian goalkeeper. Though Belgium earned two early PCs, India successfully kept them at bay.

India took some time to settle into the match, while Belgium made them work hard in the midfield to control the play and enjoy longer spells of ball possession. However, India couldn’t make successful forays or connect to the post effectively.

With a 0-0 score at half-time, Belgium shifted momentum and put India under pressure. The Indians resorted to a high press and increased their circle entries but couldn’t outsmart the Belgian defence in the third quarter. Meanwhile, Stockbroekx’s goal in the 34th minute put India under pressure.

In the final quarter, India made desperate attempts to level the scores, but Belgium’s structure held strong, successfully running down the clock to seal the win.

Ritayan Basu

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin...Read More

Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin...

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