Hockey Asian Champions Trophy final: Can China pose a threat to India at home?

India are overwhelming favourites to win the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament for the fifth time when they take on hosts China in the final in Hulunbuir on Tuesday, September 17. While the Paris Olympics bronze medalists have stormed their way into the final, hammering oppositions in their way, China have punched above their weight to give themselves an opportunity to script history.
India have been the most impressive side in the 2024 edition of the Asian Champions Trophy, scoring 25 goals and conceding just five. As many as 10 of the Paris Olympics stars are part of the squad in Hulunbuir and India’s young guns, including Uttam and Hundal Araijeet Singh, have stepped up and delivered. India have been able to consistently hit field goals, hitting 17 of their 25 from open play. On the other hand, India have continued to display excellent defensive discipline, being able to switch from attack to defence and get back into shape impressively.
India vs China, Final: Preview | Streaming Details
China are unlikely to pose a big threat on Tuesday, but India will not take their opposition lightly. The 23rd-ranked side has shown resilience and heart to reach the final for the first time in the history of the Asian Champions Trophy.
In the semi-final against Pakistan, China’s defensive prowess stood out as they eked out a 1-1 draw at the hooter in the final quarter, forcing a penalty shootout. China’s Wang Caiyu put on a splendid show between the posts, stopping all four penalty shootout attempts from Pakistan. The young goalkeeper, who was part of the Asian Champions Trophy last year, has been China’s dependable wall, playing a pivotal role in their run to the final. Caiyu was calm and composed as he helped China win the penalty shootout 2-0 against Pakistan.
China have scored only 10 goals and conceded 14 so far in the Asian Champions Trophy 2024. However, they have found ways to wriggle out of trouble and stun higher-ranked opposition. 26-year-old Gao Jiesheng is their top-scorer with four goals while Chao Jieming has scored twice for the home team in the competition. Huang Ziyang, LOin Changliang, Chen Benhai and Lu Yuanlin have scored a goal each in China’s campaign so far. Only two of the 10 goals have been field goals for the first-time finalists.
China will rely on their ability to launch quick counterattacks. Switchinfg from defence to arttack has been China’s go-to-ploy in the tournament and it was evident in their matches against Malaysia and Japan, where they capitalised on turnovers to score crucial goals.
China’s ability to bounce back from setbacks has been impressive. After a tough start, losing to India and later to Korea and Pakistan, they managed to regroup and secure victories when it mattered most. This resilience could make them a formidable opponent in the final.
CHINA’S ROAD TO FINAL
Lost to India 0-3
Beat Malaysia 4-2
Lost to Korea 2-3
Lost to Pakistan 1-5
Beat Japan 2-0
Semi-final: Beat Pakistan 2-0 on penalties
Playing on home soil can be a significant advantage. The support from the local crowd and familiarity with the conditions will be an advantage. There’s no lack of motivation for China a win will help them become the Asian champions for the first time in history. However, it’s easier said than done against Harmanpreet Singh’s India, who are looking like a well-oiled machine.