India's Dominant Start in Junior Hockey World Cup
The Indian junior men's hockey team launched their World Cup campaign in spectacular fashion, delivering a commanding 7-0 victory against Chile at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium in Chennai on Friday night. The emphatic win sets a positive tone for the host nation's aspirations in the tournament that will unfold over the coming fortnight.
From Slow Start to Goal Deluge
The match began with India showing some early rustiness despite controlling possession throughout the first quarter. The team struggled to convert their dominance into goals, with chief coach PR Sreejesh visibly concerned on the sidelines. Even a last-second penalty corner earned by Dilraj Singh failed to produce results, leaving the scoreboard untouched after the opening period.
However, the two-minute break between quarters proved transformative for the young Indian squad. They returned to the field as a completely different unit—more structured and incisive in their approach. The breakthrough finally came in the 16th minute when crafty midfielder Roshan Kujur, constantly hovering around the striking circle, capitalized on a deft pass from charging teammate Amir Ali to catch Chilean goalkeeper Nicolás Troncoso off-guard.
Kujur's Brilliance and Team's Collective Effort
Kujur, who last season played under former Australian captain Aran Zalewski at the Kalinga Lancers in the Hockey India League, demonstrated the skills he imbibed from the Kookaburra stalwart. His seamless circle entries and sharp flank play repeatedly troubled the Chilean defense throughout the match.
What followed Kujur's opener was nothing short of a goal deluge. The young midfielder doubled India's lead soon after, followed by successive goals from Dilraj Singh (25th and 34th minute), Ajeet Yadav (35th minute), Anmol Ekka (48th minute), and skipper Rohit (60th minute). Dilraj's quick reaction to pounce on a penalty-corner rebound made it 3-0, giving India a comfortable three-goal cushion heading into halftime.
After the break, Chile's initially disciplined defense began to unravel under sustained Indian pressure. Misplaced passes and hesitation created ample opportunities for the hosts, who capitalized with clinical precision. The statistics reflected India's dominance, with the team racking up an impressive 34 circle penetrations by full time.
Celebrations and Looking Ahead
The match was preceded by a vibrant opening ceremony featuring a laser show complemented by dance and musical performances, setting an energetic atmosphere for the tournament ahead. Despite the cloudy evening conditions that replaced the morning sun, there was no gloom in the Indian dugout as the team delivered a performance worthy of the occasion.
Roshan Kujur, deservingly named Player of the Match, acknowledged the team's slow start but remained optimistic about their prospects. "We started slowly and missed early chances, but going forward, we will make amends," he stated after the match.
The Indian team now prepares for their second pool fixture against Oman on Saturday night, carrying forward the momentum from this emphatic victory that has certainly made the host nation a team to watch in this Junior Men's Hockey World Cup.
