Goals from Abhishek and captain Harmanpreet Singh earned India a fourth straight victory in Pool A, securing their berth in the Asian Games men's hockey semifinals.
Defending champions India advanced to the semifinals of the Asian Games men's hockey competition after defeating hosts Japan 2-0 in a hard-fought Pool A match in Kakamigahaa on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
The victory marks India's fourth consecutive win in the tournament following previous Pool A victories over Indonesia (13-1), Sri Lanka (16-1), and South Korea (8-2). India will complete their pool fixtures against Bangladesh on September 28.
Abhishek put India ahead in the 15th minute with a field goal following an intense opening period. Skipper Harmanpreet Singh extended the lead in the 40th minute, converting India's fifth penalty corner with a low flick to the right of the Japanese goalkeeper.
Despite Japan holding 60 per cent of possession in the opening quarter and having a 10th-minute penalty corner goal disallowed due to an earlier foot infringement, India maintained defensive control. However, chief coach Craig Fulton faces tactical concerns ahead of the knockout stage, as India converted only one of the 10 penalty corners they secured during the match.
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Hockey. Photo courtesy The Hindu Hockey.