Defending champions India beat China 3-0 in Asian Champions Trophy opener

NEW DELHI: The Indian men’s hockey team started their title defense with a 3-0 win over hosts China in the Asian Champions Trophy held in Hulunbuir on Sunday.
Goals from Sukhjeet Singh, Uttam Singh and Abhishek led to India’s victory while China failed to score.
India entered the tournament with momentum after winning a second consecutive bronze at the Olympics. The team appeared more enterprising, capitalizing on opportunities and displaying a strong defense.
Sukhjeet scored the first goal in the 14th minute, securing an early lead for India.
Uttam Singh then doubled the advantage in the 27th minute, putting India 2-0 ahead before halftime.
Shortly after the break, Abhishek expanded the lead with a reverse hit goal in the 32nd minute, sealing the 3-0 victory for India.
India will face Japan in their next pool match on Monday. Last year, the Indian team won the tournament at home, making them the only team to clinch four titles in the history of the event.
In other matches of the tournament, Malaysia and Pakistan played to a 2-2 draw in a high-energy contest.
Meanwhile, Japan and Korea settled for a 5-5 draw in a thrilling encounter.