JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 22, 2025 (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka men’s national hockey team pulled off a stunning 2-1 win against host country Indonesia in a Group B match of the Men’s Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) Cup 2025, played in Jakarta last night.
The Sri Lankan team showed strong defence and clever attacking play to earn this important win, bringing a joyful moment for Sri Lanka hockey fans.
Indonesia took an early lead with a goal in the first quarter, but Sri Lanka hit back quickly through striker Lakshan Sandaruwan. His equaliser brought the score to 1-1 at the end of the first quarter.
The second and third quarters saw tight defence from both sides. However, in the fourth quarter, Sri Lanka midfielder Nalantha de Silva broke through the Indonesian defence. His powerful shot from the left wing found the back of the net, giving Sri Lanka a 2-1 lead.
De Silva’s goal turned out to be the winner and was the turning point of the match. He was later named Player of the Match for his match-winning goal and strong defensive effort throughout.
With this win, Sri Lanka have now moved to third place in Group B, behind Bangladesh and Thailand. Kazakhstan and Indonesia are placed fourth and fifth.
Sri Lanka women fight back for 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan at AHF Cup
Earlier yesterday, the Sri Lanka women’s hockey team showed great fighting spirit to earn a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan in their third group match of the Women’s AHF Cup 2025.
Uzbekistan started strongly and scored two early goals. But the Sri Lankan women didn’t give up. They stayed focused and slowly fought their way back into the game. With two well-taken goals, Sri Lanka levelled the match.
“It was a tough and competitive game. I’m proud of the team’s fighting spirit and how we stayed strong until the final whistle,” said the Sri Lanka coach Milan Boteju.
The team now has one draw and two losses from their three group matches. They are currently in fifth place in the six-team group. Uzbekistan are at the bottom, while Hong Kong China lead the group with two wins. Chinese Taipei, Singapore, and Indonesia are placed second, third, and fourth.
“Our girls played with heart. Even though we were behind, we didn’t lose hope. I’m happy and proud of their effort,” the coach added.
Today (Tuesday), is the rest day for the 10-day tournament, Sri Lanka men’s team will face Group leader Bangladesh in their next match, and another win could push them closer to a top-two finish in the group.
