Reportedly, India qualified for the 2014 hockey World Cup even before playing their semi-final match against Malaysia. However, that didn't stop them from scoring a dominant 2-0 victory over the hosts to march into the Asia Cup final.
Previously, Asia Cup defending champions South Korea knocked out Pakistan by 2-1 in the semis. Ultimately, Pakistan failed to qualify for the hockey World Cup for the first time in 42 years.
In fact, India displayed itself on the scoresheet early at the Sultan Azlah Shah stadium as VR Raghunath converted the team's first penalty corner to place India up at 1-0 in the 8th minute in the second semi-final. Particularly, the hosts were keen to hit back but India's overall defense was impressive. India's goalkeeper as well as vice-captain PR Sreejesh once again proved themselves.
Notably, India got the chance of their 2nd penalty corner in the 32nd minute, but Rupinderpal's shot was saved by the Malaysian goal-keeper S Kumar. Further, the teams took half-time break as India led by 1-0. After the break, the Malaysians grabbed a penalty corner in the 47th minute. However, a diving Sreejesh ensured that the scoreline is maintained at 1-0. It became 2-0 after thirteen minutes. Ramandeep drew the Malaysian keeper out, before hitting a delightful pass to Mandeep, who found the back of the Malaysian goal. Further, Malaysia flung everything at the Indian goal post but the Indian defense did not get upset. At the end, the hosts gave a total of 9 shots at goal as compared to India's 7.
The scoreline continued to stay the same. The Malaysian team got the consolation as they have qualified for the FIH World Cup. However, for India there's a chance of double delight. They have successfully qualified for the World Cup and a victory against defending champions South Korea on Sunday will award them with their third Asia Cup title.
