India Wins Bronze in Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup 2025

India scripted a memorable chapter in junior hockey history on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, as the U21(under 21) men’s team staged a sensational comeback to clinch the bronze medal at the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025. India faced Argentina in a gripping third-place playoff at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai. 

Despite trailing by two goals, the team staged a remarkable comeback and defeated Argentina 4-2, thrilling a roaring home crowd. The match marked a dramatic turnaround for the Indian side, who bounced back from a crushing semifinal loss to Germany and delivered a resilient performance against Argentina, who themselves were seeking redemption after a narrow defeat to Spain in the other semifinal.

A Comeback Led by Precision and Patience

India’s revival began when Manmeet Singh netted a crucial field goal, giving the team a spark just when hope seemed to fade. Shortly after, Sanjay converted a well-earned penalty corner to level the score at 2–2. The equaliser electrified the packed stadium and signalled a turning tide.

With Argentina rattled, India continued to push forward with relentless pace. Araijeet Singh Hundal, one of the tournament’s standout performers, guided India into the lead with a powerful finish. Moments later, Amandeep Lakra struck the fourth goal, sealing the match and sending the Indian bench into jubilation.

According to FIH match highlights, India’s tactical switch to a more aggressive press in the final quarter completely disrupted Argentina’s structure. The South Americans, who had held control for most of the match, suddenly struggled to maintain possession under India’s renewed intensity.

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Coach Sreejesh Praises Team’s ‘Never-Give-Up’ Spirit

Indian coach PR Sreejesh, himself a legendary goalkeeper, called the win a landmark moment for the squad. Speaking after the match, he said the team displayed “unmatched resilience and maturity,” especially after trailing by two goals. Sreejesh emphasised that the bronze medal was not just a reward for the comeback but a statement of India’s growing depth in junior hockey.

The coach also highlighted the role of the home crowd. “The energy in Chennai pushed the boys in the final quarter. They believed they could come back because the stadium believed with them,” he said in post-match comments.

Indian U21 Team Lineup for Bronze Medal Match

The following players represented India in the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025 bronze medal match against Argentina on 10 December 2025.

India Finishes on the Podium After Two Editions

The bronze in Chennai marks India’s return to the Junior World Cup podium after missing out in the 2021 and 2023 editions. Historically a strong force in youth hockey, India has now added another medal to a growing list of international achievements at the junior level.

Analysts noted that the team’s performance throughout the tournament, especially its defensive discipline and penalty corner conversions, reflects a promising pipeline of talent ahead of future senior-team promotions.

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