Germany’s dominance in junior men’s hockey continued as it secured a record eighth World Cup title, defeating Spain 3-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Earlier in the day, hosts India delivered a dramatic late comeback, scoring four goals in the final 11 minutes to beat Argentina 4-2 and claim their first-ever bronze medal in this prestigious FIH tournament.

Belgium edged the Netherlands 4-3 after a 3-3 draw to secure fifth place, while France defeated New Zealand 4-1 to finish seventh.

Final standings: Germany 1, Spain 2, India 3, Argentina 4, Belgium 5, the Netherlands 6, France 7, New Zealand 8, England 9, Ireland 10, Australia 11, South Africa 12, and Canada 22.

Spain, appearing in its first World Cup final, showed early promise by earning five penalty corners in the opening quarter but was repeatedly thwarted by Germany’s compact defense.

Germany gradually settled into rhythm in the second quarter, launching a series of attacks and forcing two penalty corners within the first five minutes. The defending champions took the lead in the 26th minute through a well-crafted goal by Justus Warweg.

Spain responded with renewed intensity and equalized in the 32nd minute when Nicholas Mustaros capitalized on a swift move that broke through the German defense.

The match continued at a high tempo, with both sides trading opportunities but failing to break the deadlock before the final whistle. With the score tied 1-1, the contest moved to a penalty shootout.

Germany faltered early, missing its first two attempts, while Spain went ahead 1-0 through Pablo Roman. The momentum shifted as Benedikt Geyer, Alec von Schwerin, and Ben Hasbach converted their attempts for Germany. Spain managed only one more successful attempt, scored by Juan Prado.

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