Asia Cup 2025: Malaysia Beat Bangladesh 4-1, South Korea Start Title Defence with 7-0 Win
Malaysia vs Bangladesh: Dominant Win for the Southeast Asians
In a thrilling Pool B clash of the Men’s Asia Cup Hockey 2025 at Rajgir, Malaysia bounced back from an early setback to defeat Bangladesh 4-1. Ranked 12th in the world, Malaysia conceded an early goal in the 16th minute when Ashraful Islam converted a penalty corner. However, Malaysia quickly turned the match around with Ashran Hamsani scoring in the 25th minute, Akhimullah Anuar in the 36th, and Muhajir Abdul Rauf in the 48th minute. Syed Cholan added the fourth goal from a penalty corner in the 54th minute to seal a convincing victory.
Despite earning four penalty corners, Malaysia converted just one, while Bangladesh scored from one of their two chances. The victory sets up a highly anticipated clash against the title holders, five-time champions South Korea, on Saturday.
South Korea vs Chinese Taipei: Defending Champions Start Strong
In the second Pool B match, defending champions South Korea dominated Chinese Taipei 7-0. Dain Son scored a hat-trick (17th, 29th, and 58th minutes), Jihun Yang struck twice from penalty corners (27th, 50th), and Seyong Oh added a field goal in the 53rd minute. Yoonho Kong (54th) and Son (late goal) further extended Korea’s commanding lead, signalling a strong start to their title defence.
Upcoming Matches and Asia Cup Significance
- Malaysia vs South Korea – Saturday, Pool B
- Bangladesh vs Chinese Taipei – Saturday, Pool B
- Japan vs Kazakhstan – Friday, Pool A
- India vs China – Friday, Pool A
The Asia Cup 2025 also serves as a direct qualifier for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, scheduled to be co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands from August 14–30, 2026. Teams are battling not only for the continental title but also for crucial World Cup qualification points.
Why This Asia Cup Matters
With top Asian hockey teams competing, the 2025 Men’s Asia Cup offers thrilling matches, rising stars, and intense rivalries. Malaysia’s win over Bangladesh and South Korea’s comprehensive victory highlight the competitive nature of this tournament. Fans can expect high-octane matches as the teams vie for both glory and a spot in the 2026 FIH World Cup.
