After Malaysia drew their last group match against Korea at 1-1, the semi-final line-up has been decided for the Asian Champions Trophy 2016 played in Kuantan, Malaysia. On Saturday, Malaysia will face Pakistan while India will take on Korea in the second semi-finals.
India topped the group with 13 points winning 4 matches and drawing their match against Korea. The semi-final match against Korea will be an exciting one with all Indian players in form. Rupinder Pal Singh has been in excellent form with 10 goals so far with 6 coming in the first match against Japan.
India’s forward Akashdeep Singh, Talwinder Singh, Nikkin have been outstanding so far. The main challenge for India in the semi-finals is to match the speed of the Korean players. Korea has been a surprised package of the tournament so far.
India is the highest ranked tournament. They are sixth in the world rankings. The favorites need to play aggressively and raise their game. The defense needs to be solid and should not allow the Korean players to score goals.
Affan Yusuf, Ramandeep Singh has also scored goals. Indian team showed their class in the group stage. Their chances against Korea in the semi-finals are bright and if they play to their potential, India has high hopes of reaching the finals and also might win the cup. It is going to tight contest and hope that India comes on top.