Chennai
India stormed to its second consecutive victory at the FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup, crushing Oman 17-0 in a one-sided Pool-B encounter at the SDAT–Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium. The hosts dominated from the outset, showcasing sharp attacking play and relentless pressure against an Omani side that entered the tournament as a late replacement for Pakistan.
Despite the commanding win, India’s penalty-corner conversion remained a concern. The team failed to score from its first 10 attempts before Anmol Ekka finally broke through off the 11th. India earned 19 penalty corners in total but converted only four — an issue the coaching staff will want to iron out before tougher tests ahead.
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh delivered one of the most spirited performances of the tournament despite a 5-3 loss to Australia in its Pool-F opener. Playing under heavy rain, the debutants matched the former champions in intensity during the second half. Amirul Islam, who has already represented the senior side, scored a brilliant hat-trick — all from penalty corners — earning widespread praise.
Last edition’s runner-up France signalled its intent with a resounding 11-1 demolition of South Korea. Arthur Plauche starred with a hat-trick, while goalkeeper Antoine Robert impressed with several outstanding saves to deny Korean opportunities.
In other matches across Chennai and Madurai, Switzerland edged Chile 3-2, Germany routed Canada 7-0, and the Netherlands defeated England 5-3. Malaysia too registered a strong 5-1 win over Austria, while South Africa beat Ireland 2-1.
