Muscat: The Indian Men’s Hockey Team displayed a commanding performance, securing a resounding 9-4 victory against Kenya in the 5th-8th place match of the FIH Hockey5s Men’s World Cup Oman 2024 in Muscat, Oman.
Earlier in the day, the Indian Men’s Hockey Team faced a 4-7 defeat against the Netherlands in the Quarter-Finals of the FIH Hockey5s Men’s World Cup 2024.
In the 5th-8th place match, Uttam Singh led the charge with a remarkable hat-trick (5’, 25’, 26’), supported by goals from Manjeet (6’), Pawan Rajbhar (10’), Mandeep Mor (15’), Mohammed Raheel (17’, 25’), and Gurjot Singh (28’). Moses Ademba (12’, 14’, 27’) and Captain Ivan Ludiali (24’) were the goalscorers for Kenya.
India dominated from the start, challenging Kenya’s goalkeeper and securing an early lead with goals from Uttam Singh and Manjeet. Pawan Rajbhar added another goal, but Kenya responded with quick goals from Moses Ademba. Mandeep Mor secured another goal, ensuring a 4-2 lead at halftime.
In the second half, India extended their lead with Mohammed Raheel scoring on a counterattack. Despite Kenya’s efforts, India strategically focused on swift passing and ball possession. Kenya’s Captain Ivan Ludiali and Moses Ademba completed their goals, but India widened the gap with goals from Mohammed Raheel, Uttam Singh’s additional two goals, and Gurjot Singh.
The match concluded with India emerging victorious, securing a 9-4 win. India will now play the 5-6th place match on 31st January at 19:30hrs IST.