After a long 15-year wait, India finally have a chance to once again become the Junior Hockey World Cup champions for the second time when they take on Belgium at the Major Dhyan Chand stadium in the final later on Sunday. India were clear favourites leading up to this tournament and they have not disappointed so far. Belgium were the surprise finalists in this tournament after they managed to hold second favourites Germany to a 0-0 draw by extra time before defeating them 4-3 on penalties.
India took on Australia in their semi-final match and it started off badly for them as they went a goal down in the 14th minute but managed to take a 2-1 led, only to let Australia get back into the game. The match ended 2-2 but India emerged successful on penalties as they won 4-2. They showed a lot of character in their last two matches against Spain and Australia after they conceded the first goal only to come back and win it.
A major concern for India going into the final will be their penalty corners. In their match against Australia, they got nine penalty corners but managed to utilise only two so that is something they will have to work on.
India's head coach Harendra Singh and India's men's senior team coach, who is also the manager of the junior side, said it is in the players' hands to decide what colour medal they get and wanted to see "perfect" hockey from them.
"December 18 match is the biggest game for these boys. I would fold my hands and request them to show their character on that day. They need to decide which colour medal they want to see hanging in their necks. Now it's time for the perfect game and that we are going to show on Sunday. Our players will bring their best hockey in the most important match of the competition," the Indian Express quoted the two coaches as saying.
Belgium, on the other hand, have improved a lot over the years. This is the first time the junior side have reached the finals. Their senior team claimed the silver medal at the Rio Olympics in August and the U-21 members will be eager to prove that they have the talent to extend their success as a hockey nation this year. Belgium team will be out to show the world that Belgium have truly arrived, overcoming their mid-ranked team status.
Before this match, two-time defending champions Germany will take on Australia in the bronze medal match.
Where to watch live
Belgium vs India is set to begin at 6:00 PM IST on Sunday.
India: TV: Star Sports 4/ Star Sports HD4. Live Streaming: Hotstar
International: Live Streaming: Olympic Channel
