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Harmanpreet's hat-trick sinks Malaysia as India keep perfect ACT unbeaten record

By · Via Times of India · Published by Everything Blog

In short

The host nation controlled the match through early scoring and effective execution during second-half advantage periods. After Malaysia temporarily leveled the contest in the 25th minute, the hosts pulled away with two goals in the third quarter, including an opportunistic reverse-hit during an opponent's yellow-card suspension. A converted penalty stroke in the 58th minute sealed the contest despite a late consolation strike from the visitors.

Key points

  • The four-two victory preserves the host nation's perfect unbeaten record through four tou…: The four-two victory preserves the host nation's perfect unbeaten record through four tournament fixtures.
  • India capitalized on crucial disciplinary suspensions, including a ten-minute yellow card…: India capitalized on crucial disciplinary suspensions, including a ten-minute yellow card issued to Malaysia's Faiz Jali.
  • The squad now heads into its concluding Asian Champions Trophy group-stage match against…: The squad now heads into its concluding Asian Champions Trophy group-stage match against South Korea with strong momentum.

Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1

India continued their dominant run in the Asian Champions Trophy 2026, but not before being pushed by a spirited Malaysia side in a contest that tested their composure and attacking depth.

Harmanpreet Singh rose to the occasion with a hat-trick, while

Sukhjeet Singh produced a stunning field goal as the hosts secured a 4-2 victory at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar on Sunday.

The win marked India's fourth consecutive victory in the tournament, keeping their unbeaten record intact and strengthening their position heading into the final group-stage fixture against South Korea.

India made a bright start and took the lead in the third minute through captain Harmanpreet, who converted a penalty corner with a powerful drag-flick. The hosts looked to build on the early advantage, but Malaysia gradually found their footing and began creating opportunities.

India goalkeeper Krishan Pathak, who replaced Suraj Karkera in the second quarter, made two important saves from Malaysian penalty corners to preserve the lead. However, Malaysia eventually found the equaliser in the 25th minute. Akhimullah Anuar finished off a move involving Faiz…

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