The stage is set for an intense hockey clash as India faces China in the final of the Asian Champions Trophy (ACT). After a dominating performance against South Korea in the semi-final, India, led by in-form captain Harmanpreet Singh, is looking to defend their title and clinch yet another ACT victory. On the other side, China has made it to the final after overcoming Pakistan in a nail-biting shootout. This final promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams prepare to leave everything on the field.
Let’s take a detailed look at the schedule, where to watch, and how both teams are shaping up for the big game.
When is the India vs China ACT Final?
The final match between India and China in the Asian Champions Trophy will take place on Tuesday, 17th September. Hockey fans across the country are eagerly waiting for this high-stakes showdown, which is expected to be a fierce contest.
What Time Does the Final Start?
The India vs China final is scheduled to begin at 3:30 PM IST. Make sure to tune in early, as this promises to be a fast-paced and action-packed game right from the first whistle.
Where to Watch the Final?
The final will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network. For those who prefer to stream the match online, it will be available on the Sony Liv app and website, ensuring fans can watch the action from anywhere.
India’s Semi-final Dominance and Historic Rivalry with Korea
In the semi-final, India continued its dominance over South Korea, winning 4-1 to secure a spot in the final. Captain Harmanpreet Singh led from the front, scoring two crucial goals. Other goal-scorers included Uttam Singh and Jarmanpreet Singh, who added to Korea’s woes. Despite Korea’s efforts, with Yang Jihun scoring their lone goal, India’s aggressive and structured play ensured they were always in control.
This victory extended India’s decade-long unbeaten streak against Korea, as they haven’t lost to the Koreans in their last 18 encounters. With nine victories and nine draws in these games, India’s dominance was clear.
China’s Road to the Final – Grit and Determination
While India cruised to the final, China had a more intense semi-final against Pakistan. After both teams finished regular time tied at 1-1, China emerged victorious in a dramatic 2-0 shootout, booking their place in the final. China’s defensive discipline was key in this hard-fought win, and they will look to continue that form against the powerful Indian team.
India’s All-Out Attack vs China’s Resilient Defense – What to Expect in the Final
India and China faced off earlier in the league stages, where India defeated China 3-0. India’s attacking play has been unmatched in the tournament, with 25 goals scored, the most by any team in this edition of the ACT. In contrast, China has managed only 10 goals, the fewest of any team.
Harmanpreet Singh, India’s captain and leading scorer with 7 goals, will be crucial once again. His ability to convert penalty corners into goals has been one of India’s biggest strengths. India’s forwards, including Uttam Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, and Sumit, will also look to break through China’s defense, which has shown resilience but will be tested to the limit in the final.
A Look Back at the India-China Rivalry
Historically, India has enjoyed success against China in hockey. Out of the 23 matches played between the two nations, India has won 17, while China has claimed victory only three times. The teams have also drawn three matches. In the context of the Asian Champions Trophy, India has dominated, winning five out of their six encounters, while China has only managed one victory.
India will be looking to continue this trend and defend their title, while China will be aiming to create an upset and repeat their 2006 Asian Games triumph, where they shocked both Pakistan and India.
Can India Repeat History?
The last time India faced China in the ACT final was in 2011, the inaugural edition of the tournament. India emerged victorious back then and has since established itself as one of the dominant forces in Asian hockey. This time around, the stakes are high once again, and Indian fans will be hoping for a repeat of that triumph.
China, on the other hand, will be banking on their underdog status and their solid performance in the semi-final to try and pull off a surprise. With history on India’s side and their impressive form throughout the tournament, the Indian team will be confident of retaining their title.
The Numbers Speak: India’s Edge in the Tournament
India’s numbers in this tournament are highly impressive. Not only are they the highest-scoring team with 25 goals, but they have also shown defensive solidity, conceding far fewer goals than many of their rivals. China, while resilient, will have to play their best game to match up to India’s firepower.
Both teams are well-prepared, and the final promises to be an exciting contest that will go down in the history books.
The wait is almost over. Fans can’t wait to see who will lift the trophy on Tuesday!
