Super 4s setback: India’s recurring issues and fresh worries after Korea draw

Asia Cup Super 4s: India held 2-2 by Korea as familiar flaws return.

India’s march in the Asia Cup 2025 hit a hurdle in their Super 4s opener on Wednesday, when a 2-2 draw with defending champions Korea exposed both recurring weaknesses and fresh concerns.

Vice-captain Hardik Singh’s solo effort gave the hosts an early lead, but defensive lapses allowed Korea to score twice in quick succession — once from a penalty stroke and then from a penalty corner. On a rain-hit evening in Rajgir, India had to chase the game before Mandeep Singh’s 53rd-minute equaliser spared them defeat.

While a point keeps India in contention, the manner of the performance was worrying. The hosts dominated possession and carved out opportunities but lacked composure when it mattered most.

Wasteful finishing

India recorded 35 circle entries, including 22 in the second half, yet converted only twice. Clear chances went begging, a frustration acknowledged by both captain Harmanpreet Singh and scorer Mandeep Singh. “We missed nine or ten open chances. Next time we must either score or force penalty corners,” Mandeep admitted.

Penalty corner neglect

With Harmanpreet, Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas, and Sanjay in the squad, India possess one of the strongest drag-flick arsenals in world hockey. But after three early PCs, they won just one more all game. By chasing field goals, India sidelined their most potent weapon — a tactical misstep that could prove costly against stronger opposition.

Forwards lacking chemistry

Despite a talented pool of attackers — Mandeep, Abhishek, Sukhjeet, Dilpreet, and Shilanand — India’s forward line still lacks fluency. Against Korea, promising moves repeatedly broke down in the final pass. Coach Craig Fulton played down concerns, calling it a matter of “one or two passes,” but sharper coordination is needed with tougher fixtures ahead.

Malaysia next

India now face Malaysia, who beat China with a compact low-block system. It’s a strategy similar to Korea’s, designed to crowd India’s attackers and force errors. To prevail, India will need quicker ball movement, smarter PC creation, and cleaner execution inside the circle.

For a side tipped as favourites after the group stage, the Korea draw was a timely reminder: old frailties remain unresolved, and new challenges are emerging at the worst possible moment.