India Clinch Final Spot with 2-1 Win over Malaysia

Image Credit: Hockey India

India secured a place in the Sultan of Johor Cup 2025 final by edging hosts Malaysia 2-1 in their final pool match at the Taman Daya Hockey Stadium in Johor Bahru on October 17, 2025. Gurjot Singh gave India the lead in the 22' and Sourabh Anand Kushwaha struck again in the 48', while Naaveenesh Panicker had earlier levelled for Malaysia in the 43'.​

The match began under wet conditions following a rain delay, which disrupted early rhythm for both teams. Neither side created clear chances in the opening quarter as they adapted to the slick surface. India broke the deadlock in the second quarter after sustained pressure earned successive penalty corners. The breakthrough came when Gurjot Singh reacted quickest to a rebound off the goalkeeper save, tapping in from close range in the 22'.​

Malaysia responded strongly after halftime and drew level through Naaveenesh Panicker’s simple tap in from a penalty corner rebound in the 43', capitalising on a lapse in India’s circle marking. The visitors regrouped and reclaimed the lead five minutes into the final quarter. From another penalty corner, the initial injection was saved but reached Kushwaha, who controlled and drilled the ball into the net for a 2-1 advantage.​

Malaysia pressed for a second equaliser in the closing stages and earned multiple late penalty corners, but India’s defence, marshalled by goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh, held firm. The disciplined defensive structure and quick counterattacks demonstrated India’s maturity under pressure. With this victory India finish second in the pool with ten points and will face Australia in the final on October 18, aiming to lift the title for a fourth time.