Asian Champions Trophy 2024: Craig Fulton Reflects On India’s Road To Glory, Dubs It ‘A Roller-Coaster Ride’

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India clinched their record-extending fifth Asian Champions Trophy, but it wasn’t an easy task as they were challenged by the underdogs, China on September 17. Despite having beaten China 3-0 in their opening match of the tournament, India faced a much tougher opposition in the final.

China, the home favourites, pushed India to their limits, with the defending champions only managing to break the deadlock in the fourth quarter through a solitary goal from Jugraj Singh. Also Read: Asian Champions Trophy 2024; Harmanpreet Singh stars as India win 4th Medal under his Captaincy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation to congratulate Harmanpreet Singh and his band for winning their record-extending fifth continental tournament and yet again established their supremacy.

"Congratulations to the incredible Indian Men's Hockey Team for winning the Asian Men's Hockey Champions Trophy 2024! Their remarkable performance, unwavering spirit and dedication have made the nation proud," posted PM Modi's handle on X.

India had secured their place in the final by defeating South Korea 4-1 in the semifinals. On the other side, China had made an impressive run to the final by overcoming Pakistan 2-0 in a shootout after the match ended 1-1 in regular time. The tournament displayed high levels of competition, with both teams fighting hard until the very end.

Craig Fulton, head coach of the Indian men’s hockey team, expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance. "It was a tough tournament, but we found a way to win in the end. Credit to China for putting up a strong fight. It was also great to see the support for hockey in this region with a full house," said Fulton.

Reflecting on the journey from the Paris Olympics to the Asian Champions Trophy, Fulton added, "It has been a roller-coaster. After our bronze at the Paris Olympics, the boys were tired, but they found a way. That’s the sign of a strong team."

Fulton also stressed the need for team development moving forward, mentioning plans for another training camp with new players. “We’re broadening our depth. It’s a new-look team, and some players need a break. We’re already looking toward the future,” he concluded.