Coach Frederik Soej Previews India's Preparations Ahead of Junior Asia Cup

Frederik Soej, the newly appointed head coach of India’s U21 men’s hockey team, outlined the preparation roadmap for the upcoming AHf Junior Asia Cup 2026 in Moki, China. The 18‑player roster, confirmed by Hockey India, includes captain Anmol Ekka and a pair of reserves. Training sessions are being conducted at the SAI Centre in Bangalore, featuring a recent exposure trip to Belgium where the side measured up against strong European teams. Soej highlighted the importance of the Belgian tour, stating it provided the squad with vital match experience, insight into tactical nuances, and an appraisal of their on‑field chemistry. The team also played a friendly against Malaysia’s U21 side to add competitive minutes. According to Soej, the selection was based on consistent performance, attitude, and the ability to execute game plans under pressure. He reinforced that the Junior Asia Cup will be highly competitive, and India’s focus remains on disciplined, attacking hockey while aiming to showcase the nation’s rising talent.