By: Kavaldip Singh
Ipoh, 23 November 2025 — At the Azlan Shah Stadium in Ipoh, the 31st Sultan Azlan Shah Cup got off to a spectacular start with a mix of intensity, tactical discipline, and emotional swings that set the stage for what looks to be an incredible week of international hockey.
The six-nation invitational started with three thrilling matches, one decided by a razor-thin margin, one by a late heartbreak, and one by a stubborn draw, all while rain clouds loomed over Ipoh and hundreds of fans packed the stands.
India Grind Out a Gritty 1–0 Win Against South Korea
With a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea to start their campaign, the Indian men’s national team demonstrated their capacity to convert early pressure while withstanding persistent Korean attacks in the closing moments of the game.
Mohammed Raheel finished a quick attacking move in the fifteenth minute to give India the ideal start. It was the only goal of the evening. Heavy rain caused a brief postponement of the game, but once play resumed, the Indians maintained their rhythm.
Belgium and Canada Share the Spoils in a 1–1 Draw
Belgium and Canada fought to a 1-1 draw in what may have been the most evenly matched game of the first day. Both teams displayed moments of brilliance and persevered until the very end. Belgium appeared to be in control after drawing first blood, but Canada rallied to tie the score and prevent the Belgians from scoring the most points.
Malaysia Let Victory Slip as New Zealand Snatch Late Equaliser in 2–2 Draw
Malaysia, the beloved Speedy Tigers, had to settle for a 2-2 draw with a tenacious New Zealand team.
Malaysia got off to a great start, with Shello Silverius scoring in the ninth minute and Syed Syafiq Syed Mohd Cholan converting a penalty corner in the twenty-first. Sam Lane’s penalty stroke in the 26th minute gave New Zealand the lead, and Dylan Thomas’ late equalizer in the 57th minute broke Malaysian hearts.
