Where to Watch India vs China Hockey Asia Cup 2025 for free?

The Indian men’s hockey team will kick off their Asia Cup 2025 campaign on home soil at Rajgir, Bihar, when they face China on Friday in what promises to be a thrilling opening clash. After last winning the tournament in 2017, India will look to reclaim the continental crown and secure direct qualification for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup. For the hosts, this is more than just another group-stage match; it is the start of a mission to reassert themselves as Asia’s top hockey nation.
The Men’s Asia Cup remains one of the most prestigious events in Asian hockey. Defending champions South Korea are the most successful side in the competition with five titles, while India is second with three. In the last edition, India had to settle for third place after drawing their semifinal with South Korea, who progressed on goal difference. With that painful memory still fresh, India will be determined to make a stronger push this time around.

Where to Watch India vs China Hockey Asia Cup 2025 - Live Streams & TV Channels

The India Vs China Hockey Asia Cup 2025 match will be broadcast live and streamed on multiple platforms worldwide. Here's how fans can catch the action:

India vs China Predicted Lineups

Here are Sportsdunia's India vs China predicted lineups:

India Predicted Lineup

Krishan Pathak, Suraj Karkera, Harmanpreet Singh (captain), Amit Rohidas, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sumit, Sanjay, Jugraj Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh

Reserves: Nilam Sanjeep Xess, Selvam Karthi

China Predicted Lineup

Ao Xu, Chen Qijun, Gao Jiesheng, Chen Chengfu, Meng Yuanfeng, Li Pengfei, Chen Chongcong (C), Lu Yuanlin, Meng Dihao, Xu Jiebin, Du Shihao, Zhang Xiaojia, Ao Suozhu, Meng Nan, Lin Changliang, Guo Xiaolong, Wang Weihao (GK), Wang Caiyu (GK), Ao Yang, Chen Benhai

India vs China Match Timings

India’s Strengths and Preparations

India enters the Hockey Asia Cup 2025 after an impressive run in recent international competitions, though they also faced struggles in the FIH Pro League earlier this year. Head coach Craig Fulton has underlined the importance of this event, calling it “the most important tournament of the year” for his team. A training camp in Perth, Australia gave the squad high-intensity sessions and competitive matches, sharpening their tactical readiness.

Fulton believes the group is “playing with real purpose” and are fully prepared for the challenge ahead. Captain Harmanpreet Singh echoed that sentiment, highlighting how recent tours and training have helped the team prepare for Asian rivals who, like Australia, often play a man-to-man style. Harmanpreet, one of the world’s most lethal drag-flickers, will be India’s biggest weapon from penalty corners. Supported by the creativity of midfielders Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh, and the finishing ability of forwards like Mandeep Singh, India’s attacking depth gives them a clear edge.

China’s Challenge

China, however, should not be underestimated. Their campaign in the Asian Champions Trophy 2024 showed flashes of promise, as they competed closely with stronger teams like Japan and Korea. Key forward Guo Xiaoping remains their main source of goals, while midfielder Liang Ming plays a pivotal role in transitioning from defense to attack. At the back, captain Zhang Wei will be tasked with keeping India’s high-press forwards at bay.

China’s biggest challenge remains consistency in finishing. While they often create opportunities, converting them against top defenses has been their Achilles’ heel. Still, their counterattacking style and disciplined structure could pose problems if India are not sharp enough in transition. An upset win here would send a strong message that China is ready to compete for a top spot in the pool.

Prediction

The clash promises to be a high-intensity affair. India will look to press high from the start, force mistakes, and rely on their drag-flicks and quick passing in the circle. China will aim to stay compact, frustrate the hosts, and hit on the break. Given India’s current form, depth, and historical dominance in this rivalry, they remain strong favorites. China’s resilience may keep things competitive, but India’s superior skill set and home advantage should see them through.
Predicted Score: India 3 – 1 China