Celebrating India's 61st anniversary of historic 1962 Asian Games triumph

On this day, Indian football team were crowned champions for the second time in the Asian Games' history. 

Monday, the 4th of September 2023, marks the 61st anniversary of India’s historic Asian Games triumph, which saw them become the joint most successful team in the competition, along with China. 

The final against South Korea

On that day, the Blue Tigers defeated a resilient South Korean side, who were playing their third final in a row at the Asian Games, and were determined to finally get their hands on the winners’ medal. 

A hostile crowd of 100,000 spectators assembled at the Senayan Main Stadium in Jakarta, as two resilient flocks took centre stage for national glory. Having already lost against the Taegeuk Warriors in the group stage of the competition, the pressure was very much on Syed Abdul Rahim’s men.

The game began with a strong knack by the Indians, who had set their plan straight from the very start. India made a positive start, and took an early lead in the 17th minute, courtesy of P.K. Banerjee. 

South Korea were shaken by this sheer start by India, and were completely destabilised after the first goal. Taking advantage of the desperate situation, India turned on the heat and attacked vigilantly, and inside three minutes scored the second goal of the game.

From there on, it was a phenomenal show of passion and grit by India, who guarded their goal with all their might. 

South Korea bounced back in the 85th minute with a goal, but despite a nervy final few minutes, India had crossed the line, and had won the Asian Games gold medal.

It was a story of persuasion and determination, as despite the government’s reluctance towards the team’s participation, the team in Blue brought pride and joy to the entire nation, and delivered one of Indian football’s greatest moments in the post-Independence era.

Picture Courtesy: The Hindu Archives