Excitement Builds as Oman, France, and Switzerland Arrive in Chennai for Men’s Junior World Cup
Chennai is buzzing with anticipation as three more teams—Oman, France, and Switzerland—land in the city ahead of the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025. Scheduled to take place from November 28 to December 10 across Chennai and Madurai, this edition is set to be the largest Junior World Cup in history, featuring 24 teams. The arrival of these teams adds to the growing excitement surrounding this prestigious tournament.
Oman: A Historic Debut
Oman is making its first-ever appearance in the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup, marking a significant milestone for the nation’s hockey program. The team has been placed in Pool B alongside hosts India, Switzerland, and Chile. Oman will kick off its campaign against Switzerland on November 28 in Chennai.
Oman’s coach, Mohammed Bait Jandal, expressed the team’s eagerness to make the most of this unique opportunity. “It’s our first time participating in this prestigious competition, and our aim is to give our very best and make the most of the experience,” he stated. Jandal emphasized the importance of learning from high-level matches, particularly against a powerhouse like India. The team is determined to execute their strategies effectively and grow in skill and structure throughout the tournament.
France: Aiming for Glory
France arrives as one of the most consistent teams in recent editions of the Junior World Cup. Having finished as runners-up in both 2013 and 2023, and securing third place in 2021, France is a formidable contender. This year, they aim to lift the coveted title, and their journey begins in Pool F, where they will face Australia, Bangladesh, and Korea. Their first match is against Korea on November 29 in Chennai.
Coach Matthias Dierckens shared insights into the team’s preparations, stating, “After winning a Bronze and then a Silver medal in recent editions, our ambition is naturally to compete for the ultimate prize this time.” He acknowledged that while the current squad is younger and less experienced, they possess immense talent. Dierckens encouraged his players to enjoy the experience while remaining focused on their goals, emphasizing the importance of navigating the group stage successfully.
Switzerland: Ready to Make Their Mark
Switzerland enters the tournament as another debutant, eager to showcase their skills on the world stage. They are also in Pool B, facing India, Oman, and Chile, with their opening match against Oman on November 28 in Chennai.
Coach Jair Levie expressed the excitement within the team, stating, “Making our debut at the Junior Hockey World Cup is a historic moment for Switzerland, and the entire team is genuinely excited.” He highlighted the significance of playing in India, a country renowned for its hockey legacy. Levie conveyed confidence in the team’s preparation and readiness to exceed expectations, looking forward to a challenging match against India.
Anticipation in the Air
As Oman, France, and Switzerland settle into Chennai, the anticipation for the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup continues to rise. With each team bringing its unique story and aspirations, fans can expect thrilling matches and unforgettable moments in what promises to be a historic edition of the tournament. The countdown has begun, and the stage is set for an exhilarating showcase of junior hockey talent.
