India’s young hockey stars are all set to kick off their campaign against Chile in the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2025. This exciting opener happens on November 28 at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium in Chennai. Defending champions Germany will face South Africa in the tournament’s first match in Madurai. The massive 24-team event, the biggest ever, will unfold across two venues in Tamil Nadu from November 28 to December 10, 2025.
One of the highlights? The blockbuster clash between rivals India and Pakistan on November 29 in Chennai. Hockey fans can’t wait for this intense showdown!
The match schedule dropped during a lively ceremony in Chennai on Monday. Big names like FIH President Tayyab Ikram, Tamil Nadu’s Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey, and Secretary General Bholanath Singh joined the fun.
For the first time, 24 teams will battle it out, split into six pools of four. Here’s the breakdown:
- Pool A: Germany, South Africa, Canada, Ireland
- Pool B: India (hosts), Pakistan, Chile, Switzerland
- Pool C: Argentina, New Zealand, Japan, China
- Pool D: Spain, Belgium, Egypt, Namibia
- Pool E: Netherlands, Malaysia, England, Austria
- Pool F: France, Australia, Korea, Bangladesh
This schedule reveal ramps up the hype for the largest Junior Hockey World Cup in history. It also settles rumors—Pakistan is definitely coming to India, unlike their pullout from the recent Senior Men’s Asia Cup in Bihar.
FIH President Tayyab Ikram shared his excitement: "Launching the schedule for the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025 is a huge milestone. With 24 teams for the first time, we’re boosting hockey’s global growth and giving new nations a shot against the big guns under our Empowerment and Engagement strategy."
Tamil Nadu’s Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin added: "Now that the fixtures are out, the real buzz starts! Fans can gear up for thrilling games in Chennai and Madurai. Hockey means a lot here in Tamil Nadu, and this event will fire up thousands of kids to pick up sticks. We’re teaming up with Hockey India and FIH to make it unforgettable."
Hockey India President Dr. Dilip Tirkey chimed in: "Chennai and Madurai hosting this historic edition with 24 teams is a proud moment for Indian hockey and the world. Unveiling the schedule kicks off the countdown to showcasing tomorrow’s stars."
Get ready, hockey lovers—this Junior World Cup promises non-stop action and rising talents from around the globe!
