Ipoh (Malaysia), Aug 30:Virtually assured of a World Cup berth, India produced an inspiring performance beating hosts Malaysia 2-0 to enter the final of the 9th Asia Cup hockey tournament here today.
The Koreans have already qualified for the World Cup while India and Malaysia have all but qualified for the World Cup as the first and second reserves.
There was some fantastic news awaiting the Indian team prior to the start of their semi-final clash against the Malaysians after defending champions South Korea beat Pakistan 2-1 in a hard-fought first semi-final at the Sultan Azlan Shah stadium.
Three-time champions Pakistan’s defeat meant that India and Malaysia now have virtually qualified for next year’s World Cup, the official confirmation of which will come only after the conclusion of the Oceania Cup in November. (PTI)
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