Muscat, Jan 31, 2024, IANS

Muscat (Oman), Jan 30 (IANS): The Indian men's hockey team secured a convincing 9-4 victory against Kenya in the 5th-8th place match of the FIH Hockey5s Men’s World Cup 2024 here on Tuesday.

Uttam Singh struck in the 5’th, 25’th and 26th minutes for his three goals, while Manjeet (6’), Pawan Rajbhar (10’), Mandeep Mor (15’), Mohammed Raheel (17’, 25’), and Gurjot Singh (28’) scored goals for India as they dominated the match. For Kenya, Moses Ademba (12’, 14’, 27’) and captain Ivan Ludiali (24’) were the goalscorers.

Right from the start, India took control of the game, challenging Kenya's goalkeeper multiple times in the initial minutes. Despite Kenya's efforts to counterattack, India maintained aggressive play. The breakthrough for India came when Uttam Singh (5’) and Manjeet (6’) scored, giving India an early lead.

Continuing their relentless assault, India kept the pressure on Kenya's defense, leading to Pawan Rajbhar (10’) adding another goal with a powerful shot. Kenya, however, narrowed the gap with two quick goals from Moses Ademba (12’, 14’). Mandeep Mor (15’) then secured another goal for India, ensuring a 4-2 lead at halftime.

The second half saw India extending their lead as Mohammed Raheel (17’) scored on a counterattack. India strategically focused on swift passing and ball possession to prevent Kenya from making a comeback.

Nevertheless, Kenya's Captain Ivan Ludiali (24’) found the back of the net and Moses Ademba (27’) completed his hat-trick, but India widened the gap with goals from Mohammed Raheel (25’), Uttam Singh (25’, 26’), and Gurjot Singh (28’). The match concluded with India emerging victorious, securing a 9-4 win.

India will next play the 5-6th place match of the tournament on January 31.