India, July 21 -- India and Pakistan's men's teams are set to face off in the inaugural Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship 2026, with the match scheduled for 11:00 PM IST in Muscat, Oman. The tournament, running from July 20 to 25, serves as the official Asian qualifier for the first-ever FIH U18 Youth Hockey5s World Cup and features some of the continent's brightest young hockey talents. Both teams are part of the Elite Pool alongside hosts Oman and Bangladesh.

The fast-paced Hockey5s format brings a different challenge compared to traditional hockey, with a smaller playing area, continuous action, quick transitions, and more attacking opportunities. India, coached by hockey great Sardar Singh, will look to use defensive discipline and r...