By: Kavaldip Singh
IPOH: On November 30, the 2025 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup came to a dramatic end. All six of the participating nations experienced heartbreak, heroics, and intense hockey. Every team made a lasting impact and the spectators saw a display of talent, tenacity, and patriotism.
After different paths to the final, Belgium and India squared off in the championship match. Belgium showed their trademark discipline, clinical finishing, and unwavering defense as they entered undefeated. After a thrilling 14-3 victory over Canada, India advanced to the final with attacking flair that delighted the home crowd.
Belgium broke the impasse with a field goal from Thibeau Stockbroekx in the 34th minute of a tense, tactical match. Belgium won 1-0 thanks to a strong defense that withstood constant pressure from India, which included multiple penalty-corner opportunities. Belgium became the sixth country in Europe to win the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup with this historic victory, and India, having shown their strength and tenacity on the international scene, departed with pride and lessons learned.
Malaysia, the hosts, and New Zealand faced off for third place. Despite having the support of the crowd, the “Speedy Tigers” were unable to overcome New Zealand’s firepower. Before halftime, James Hickson added another goal, and captain Sam Lane scored twice in the first seven minutes. In the third quarter, Lane came back to finish a spectacular hat-trick that solidified New Zealand’s superiority.
Despite a consolation penalty stroke from Malaysia’s Faizal Saari, New Zealand won 6-1. New Zealand celebrated a well-deserved bronze, displaying accuracy, poise, and deadly finishing, while the hosts were left to grieving a lost chance.
Drama of its own was introduced by the tournament’s classification matches. In a highly debated match, Canada and South Korea battled for pride and the top spot. South Korea finished sixth, while Canada won fifth place with a 4-3 victory. Despite not being in the spotlight for medals, both teams showed tenacity and a spirit of competition, demonstrating that every game mattered until the very end.
Final Standings
1st – Champions: Belgium
2nd – Runner-up: India
3rd – Bronze: New Zealand
4th: Malaysia
5th: Canada
6th: South Korea
The 2025 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup produced unforgettable hockey drama for all six countries, from Belgium’s historic victory to India’s brilliant attacks, New Zealand’s disciplined bronze run, Malaysia’s heroic battle at home, Canada’s narrow victory over Korea, and South Korea’s struggle.
Even though the competition is over, players, spectators, and countries will all remember the lessons, moments, and memories.
