Harmanpreet's Hat-Trick Saves India in Thrilling Asia Cup Opener

In the Asia Cup opener, India secured a narrow 4-3 victory against China, with skipper Harmanpreet Singh scoring a hat-trick. Despite winning, India struggled to convert opportunities, missing seven out of 11 penalty corners. Jugraj Singh also scored for India, while China showed resilience with three goals.

India barely clinched a 4-3 victory over a determined China in their Asia Cup opener on Friday, thanks to a hat-trick from skipper Harmanpreet Singh. His performance was pivotal, although the team squandered several opportunities, converting only four of 11 penalty corners.

China proved to be formidable opponents, with goals from Shihao Du, Benhai Chen, and Jiesheng Gao, leveling the score at one point. India's Jugraj Singh also contributed to the scoreboard, netting a penalty corner in the 18th minute.

The match unfolded with India taking an aggressive stance, but encountering missed chances and disallowed goals. Despite the imperfect execution, India managed to secure the win, setting the stage for their upcoming match against Japan.

(With inputs from agencies.)