It turned out to be a historic day for India as they reclaimed the title for the second time in the history of the tournament. India had last won the tournament way back in 2001 in Hobart.
Photo: Rajeev Bhatt
The host started as favourite for the title and, despite a few niggles and concerns, has lived up to the billing, producing its best show in the semifinals against Australia.
Photo: Rajeev Bhatt
India remained unbeaten in the tournament playing "simple hockey" as their head coach Harendra Singh advocates.
Photo: Rajeev Bhatt
25,000 people cheered the team in a stadium that could accommodate just 15,000.
Photo: Rajeev Bhatt
It didn't take India too long to surge ahead as they drew the first blood in the eighth minute through Gurjant's fantastic field strike.
Photo: Rajeev Bhatt
India's midfield, led by team captain Harjeet Singh (seen in picture), did a fine job of restricting and breaking the flow of the Belgian game.
Photo: Rajeev Bhatt
With this win, India became only the second nation after Germany to win the Under-21 title more than once. Germany, who overpowered Australia 3-0 to secure the third spot on the podium, have won six titles.
Photo: Rajeev Bhatt
