Indian junior men’s hockey team continued their superb form at the 13th Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC) 2025, defeating New Zealand 4–2 in an entertaining Group Stage match at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium, Johor Bahru.
India got off to a blistering start, immediately pressing high and forcing errors from the New Zealand backline. Their early aggression paid off just two minutes in, when Arshdeep Singh pounced on a loose ball inside the circle after his initial shot was saved by the Kiwi goalkeeper. The quick follow-up from Arshdeep gave India a perfect 1–0 lead.
The pressure didn’t ease as India earned a string of penalty corners. Their persistence was rewarded in the final minute of the first quarter, when a clever variation from skipper Rohit set up PB Sunil, who fired a low drive past the New Zealand keeper to double the lead at 2–0.
India remained in control during the second quarter, combining pace and precision in their attacking buildup. Araijeet Singh Hundal, one of India’s standout forwards, showcased his class in the 26th minute, turning sharply inside the circle before rifling the ball into the back of the net to make it 3–0.
The Kiwis looked to respond through long passes and counterattacks but were repeatedly denied by India’s disciplined defensive line led by Amandeep Lakra and Sharda Nand Tiwari.
New Zealand showed renewed energy in the third quarter and finally broke through in the 41st minute when Gus Nelson capitalized on a defensive lapse to pull one back. However, India quickly restored their three-goal cushion just six minutes later through Rosan Kujur, who scored from a penalty corner to make it 4–1.
The Kiwis continued to push forward, and Aidan Max converted from close range in the 52nd minute to reduce the deficit to 4–2, but India’s defense stayed composed to close out the match confidently.
India now top the standings with two wins from two matches and will next face arch-rivals Pakistan on Tuesday, in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most anticipated clashes.
Credit Photo : Jayden Seah/SNE Sports
