Sultan Azlan Shah Cup: India Clinches Silver After Narrow 0-1 Defeat to Belgium
Thibeau Stockbroekx’s 34th minute strike hands Belgium a 1-0 victory over India in a tightly contested final
India, Dec 01: India came up short in a thrilling Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 final, losing 1-0 to Belgium in Ipoh, Malaysia, and settling for the silver medal. Belgium’s lone goal, scored by Thibeau Stockbroekx in the 34th minute, proved decisive, handing the European side their maiden title in just their second appearance at the prestigious invitational hockey tournament.
India’s missed chances and Belgium’s resilience
Despite earning three penalty corners, India could not break through Belgium’s disciplined defence. Earlier in the tournament, India had recorded a high-scoring 14-3 win over Canada but struggled to convert opportunities in the final. This defeat mirrored their earlier league stage encounter against Belgium, where India had fallen 3-2.
Tactical battle and emerging Indian talent
With experienced stars Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh rested, younger Indian players bore the responsibility of matching a world class Belgian side. The match featured intense midfield battles and showcased India’s defensive discipline, keeping the scoreline narrow.
Match flow highlights
The first half ended goalless, with Belgium enjoying more ball possession and testing India’s goalkeeper with sharp attacks. India gradually increased circle entries and high press in the second half, but Belgium’s structure remained solid. Stockbroekx’s goal in the 34th minute shifted momentum decisively, and despite India’s desperate efforts in the final quarter, Belgium maintained control to secure victory.
Key takeaway:
India demonstrated resilience and skill but fell short against Belgium’s tactical execution, settling for silver while the Belgians celebrated their first Sultan Azlan Shah Cup triumph.
