India regroup after semifinal loss, eyeing podium finish today
CHENNAI
The dream of reclaiming the FIH Men’s Junior World Cup may have slipped away, but hosts India will aim to salvage pride and secure a podium finish when they face Argentina in the bronze medal match today. India, champions last in 2016 in Lucknow, suffered a heavy 1–5 defeat to seven-time winners Germany in the semifinals, leaving the young side heartbroken and determined to make amends at home.
Argentina, two-time champions in 2005 and 2021, were edged out 1–2 by Spain in a closely contested semifinal and arrive with their own sense of urgency. Known for their physicality and disciplined structure, the South American side is expected to test India across all departments.
India’s semifinal performance raised concerns, with the team visibly wilting under pressure. Defensive lapses, mispasses, and soft goals proved costly, while the forwards—who excelled in the pool stages—struggled to convert opportunities. Players such as Dilraj Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Sourabh Anand Kushwaha, Gurjot Singh, and Ajeet Yadav created chances but failed to break Germany’s resistance.
Head coach P.R. Sreejesh admitted the team fell short tactically, saying the inability to execute plans and conceding easy goals hurt their title hopes. He stressed the need for collective responsibility: solid defending first, followed by efficient attacking play.
Skipper Rohit leads a defence that must dramatically improve to contain Argentina’s forwards. The midfield—featuring Rosan Khujur, Ankit Pal, Manmeet Singh, Adrohit Ekka, and Thounaojam Ingalemba Luwang—will need greater cohesion to feed the attack effectively.
Penalty corners remain India’s persistent weakness. Despite Anmol Ekka scoring from a set piece against Germany, the usually reliable Rohit has struggled to make an impact with drag-flicks this tournament.
Goalkeeper Princedeep Singh has been a standout performer and will again be crucial to India’s chances.
Meanwhile, Germany will chase a record-extending eighth title when they meet Spain in Wednesday’s final.