New Delhi, June 6 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated the Indian men’s U-18 hockey team for clinching the Men’s U-18 Asia Cup 2026 title, describing the achievement as a “splendid accomplishment” and praising the team’s exceptional skill and teamwork throughout the tournament.

India were crowned champions after a dominant 4-1 victory over hosts Japan in the final at Kakamigahara. Ashish Tani Purti starred with a hat-trick, scoring in the 2nd, 28th, and 34th minutes, while captain Ketan Kushwaha added another goal in the 30th minute to seal a memorable triumph for the young Indian side.

Reacting to the victory, the Prime Minister said in a post on the social media platform X: “A splendid accomplishment by our young hockey players!

“Congratulations to the Indian Men’s U18 Hockey Team on winning the Men’s U18 Asia Cup 2026. The team displayed exceptional skill and teamwork throughout the tournament, culminating in a memorable victory in the final.

“This triumph also reflects hockey’s growing popularity among our youth. My best wishes to the team for their future endeavours,” Modi posted.

India dominated the summit clash from the outset, taking the lead inside the opening two minutes through Purti from a penalty corner. The forward struck twice more to complete his hat-trick before halftime, while Kushwaha’s goal ensured India entered the break with a commanding 3-0 advantage.

Japan managed to pull one back through Numada Gaku’s penalty stroke in the 52nd minute, but the Indian defence remained resolute to secure the title.

Purti’s heroics in the final earned him the Player of the Match award, while his tally of 13 goals saw him finish as the tournament’s top scorer. Goalkeeper Ayush Rajak was named the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament, underlining India’s dominance in the competition.

PM Modi also congratulated the women’s hockey team after they secured the bronze medal at the U18 Asia Cup 2026 with a commanding 3-0 victory over Korea in the third-place playoff on Saturday.

Taking to social media after India’s podium finish, Modi praised the team’s fighting spirit throughout the competition. “Congratulations to the Indian Women’s U18 Hockey Team on securing the Bronze Medal at the U18 Asia Cup 2026. The team displayed remarkable grit throughout the tournament. This feat reflects the growing strength of women’s hockey in India and the immense potential of our players. Wishing the team the very best for their upcoming endeavours,” Modi posted.

Determined to bounce back from their narrow shootout defeat against China in the semi-finals, India made a dream start and took the lead within the opening two minutes. Sandeepa Kumari (2′) showcased excellent composure in front of goal, producing a brilliant finish to give India the breakthrough and set the tone for the contest.

India continued to dominate possession and create opportunities in the attacking circle. Their persistence paid off in the 16th minute when Captain Sweety Kujur (16′) found the back of the net with a field goal to double India’s advantage heading into the second quarter.

With a comfortable two-goal cushion, India maintained control after the break and further extended their lead in the 33rd minute. The team then showcased great defence and won the match without conceding a single goal.

–IANS

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