s2h team
With a winning goal coming from up-and-coming star Kartik Selvam, India scrapped through New Zealand 3-2 for its third win in four matches. However, heart goes for the losers New Zealand, who did everything than winning. They had every parameter of the game in their favour, but a spirited Indian defence, though cracked twice in the gap of seven minutes in the second half, stood solid. Indian goalie Pawan was in his elements to ward of numerous Kiwi’s attacks and keeping Indian 2-0 lead count. After Kartik Selvam against put India in the lead, captain Sanjay, who scored off a penalty corner earlier, missed, as goalie Howard would dive to his left to deflect the ball off danger.
With a fabulous 9-1 over the hosts, Belgium now tops the pool with 10 points, with India behind with a point less.
Sultan Shah 2025 Schedule
It was New Zealand who did the early running in the first few minutes of the match, but the Indian defense ensured that they didn’t give away any scoring opportunities. India manufactured their first real chance through a well-crafted move that resulted in a Penalty Corner and Amit Rohidas (4’) made that count with a ferocious drag-flick to open the scoring. India were denied a second goal after the New Zealand keeper kept out Abhishek’s shot from close range, concluding a lively first quarter with a 1-0 lead.
The Black Sticks began the second quarter in search of an equaliser, moving the ball in search of an opening. They did have an opportunity to get back on level terms through a Penalty Corner but were kept at bay by the Indian defenders throughout the quarter, ensuring India take a slender lead with them into half time.
India began the second half on the front foot and doubled their advantage early in the second half as Captain Sanjay (32’) converted from a Penalty Corner. New Zealand looked for an immediate response with a couple of Penalty Corners of their own but couldn’t break down the Indian defense. Pawan was sensational in goal for India but his resistance was finally broken as George Baker (42’) helped New Zealand pull one back, setting up an intriguing final quarter.
New Zealand began the fourth quarter in search of their second goal, and managed to restore parity at 2-2 through a Penalty Corner with George Baker (48’) converting for them again. India struck right back though, as Abhishek’s pass was neatly finished off by Selvam Karthi (54’), helping India regain their advantage. They had an opportunity to put the result beyond all doubt with a penalty stroke, but they were unable to convert. However, India held their ground in the final stages to get over the line with a well-deserved 3-2 win.
India will next play Canada on 29th November at 1330 hours IST. All matches of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 are being broadcast live on FanCode.