Junior Hockey World Cup 2025: Goliath Germany stands between India and final
Having navigated its “first real test”, India now faces its most formidable hurdle in the ongoing FIH Men’s Junior Hockey World Cup 2025. On Sunday at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium, PR Sreejesh’s squad will clash with reigning champion Germany for a spot in the final.
Goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh’s brilliance in the shootout propelled the Blue Colts past Belgium. However, the German defence will pose a much more rigid challenge. India’s recent history against the German juggernaut is discouraging; it has fallen to it in the semifinals of the last two editions, ultimately finishing fourth. Rohit and Co. aren’t just facing a tough opponent; they are confronting a dynasty of serial winners.
Germany’s record in the Junior World Cup is staggering: seven titles (including three as West Germany) across the last 13 editions. In the six instances it failed to lift the trophy, it secured a podium finish five times, with its only exception being 2005.
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The goals from short corners by Sharda Nand Tiwari and Rohit seemed to have resolved India’s penalty corner conversion concerns. Yet, conceding two goals from open play in the quarterfinal has revealed a different defensive vulnerability that Sreejesh and his coaching staff must urgently address.
The German team’s height advantage also presents a theoretical challenge, potentially neutralising India’s aerial ball tactics. Critically, the Indian contingent must focus on the midfield. Apart from Roshan Kujur, the unit has lacked composure in possession during high-pressure moments. It must collectively enhance its coordination to effectively link the attack and defence across both halves of the field.
Germany also progressed via a shootout, overcoming France thanks to its custodian Jasper Ditzer. The French demonstrated that the composed German defence is susceptible to disruption through rapid passing and smart player movements.
“We expect Germany to play really well, so we have to raise our level according to the occasion. And what we need to do is score. That’s the most important thing. We need to get that final touch. We were running the game, we controlled the game, we created a lot of chances, but once you are inside the D, you can’t give away ball possession,” commented the Indian coach.
In contrast to its start in the quarterfinal, India must begin the game with intense focus and strength. The key to victory will be playing the opposition in front of them, not the weight of the occasion or the difficult history.
Published on Dec 06, 2025