Moqi [China], September 17 (ANI): Craig Fulton, the chief coach of the Indian hockey team, showered immense praise on the young Indian squad for their remarkable achievement in retaining the Asian Champions Trophy. Despite an impressive unbeaten streak throughout the tournament, Fulton acknowledged the numerous challenges faced by this youthful side.

Harmanpreet Singh, the captain who previously led India to a bronze medal in Paris, was distinguished as the Hero of the Tournament. His contributions were pivotal; he not only scored at crucial moments but also orchestrated the decisive goal in the final match.

Reflecting on the team’s performance, Chief Coach Fulton stated, “The journey was arduous but rewarding in the end. We had to put in a lot of effort and faced significant competition. Across seven games, we exhibited commendable hockey skills even though we struggled to score in tonight’s match. Ultimately, we secured the victory.”

Fulton elaborated on the challenges, adding, “It has been an emotional roller-coaster—transitioning from Paris with its ups and downs and then spending just eight days with family before coming here. Competing with a young group, including some new players, was demanding. The boys were fatigued, yet they demonstrated resilience and determination. This is always indicative of a strong team.”

He further expressed his optimism about the team’s future potential, emphasizing that there is ample talent to construct a formidable unit moving forward.

Skipper Harmanpreet Singh also expressed his delight with the outcome, noting that it signifies the readiness of the upcoming generation to shoulder responsibilities as India gears up for more significant challenges ahead.

Here is a detailed summary of India’s performance in the Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament:

– **Match 1: India 3-0 China**
– Goals: Sukhjeet Singh (14′), Uttam Singh (27′), Abhishek (32′)

– **Match 2: India 5-1 Japan**
– Goals: Sukhjeet Singh (2′, 60′), Abhishek (2′), Sanjay (17′), Uttam Singh (54′)
– Japan’s Goal: Matsumoto Kazumasa (41′)

– **Match 3: India 8-1 Malaysia**
– Goals: Raj Kumar Pal (3′, 25′, 33′), Araijeet Singh Hundal (6′, 39′), Jugraj Singh (7′), Harmanpreet Singh (22′), Uttam Singh (40′)
– Malaysia’s Goal: Akhimullah Anuar (11′)

– **Match 4: India 3-1 South Korea**
– Goals: Harmanpreet Singh (9′, 43′), Araijeet Singh Hundal (8′)
– South Korea’s Goal: Jihun Yang (30′)

– **Match 5: India 2-1 Pakistan**
– Goals: Harmanpreet Singh (13′, 19′)
– Pakistan’s Goal: Ahmad Nadeem (8′)

– **Semi-final: India 4-1 South Korea**
– Goals: Harmanpreet Singh (19′, 45′), Uttam Singh (13′), Jarmanpreet Singh (32′)
– South Korea’s Goal: Yang Ji-Hun (33′)

– **Final: India 1-0 China**
– Goal: Jugraj Singh (51′)