The defending champions edged past hosts Japan 2-0 in a tense Pool A clash at the Asian Games 2026, played out under steady drizzle at the Kawasaki Juko Hockey Stadium in Kakamigahara. Abhishek broke the deadlock in the 15th minute after Japan’s defence switched off at the top of the circle, and captain Harmanpreet Singh doubled the advantage with a thunderous penalty-corner flick in the 40th minute. With the win sealed, India have already booked their semi-final berth — one match early — before their final Pool A game against Bangladesh on September 28.
It wasn’t a walkover, though. Japan pushed hard on the counter and racked up multiple penalty corners, but goalkeeper Suraj Karkera and a disciplined Indian backline held firm all match. The day also carried a personal milestone — defender Sanjay played his 100th senior international appearance for India.
Table of Contents
Hockey Match Snapshot: India vs Japan
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Result | India won 2-0 |
| Goal Scorers | Abhishek (15′), Harmanpreet Singh (40′, PC) |
| Venue | Kawasaki Juko Hockey Stadium, Kakamigahara |
| Pool A Record | 4 wins from 4 matches |
| Milestone | Sanjay’s 100th international cap |
| Next Match | vs Bangladesh, September 28 |
This win keeps alive India’s bid to defend the Asian Games hockey gold they won in the previous edition, and sets up a semi-final date without dropping a single point in the group stage.
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FAQs
Q1. Did India qualify for the Asian Games 2026 hockey semi-finals?
Yes, India sealed their semi-final spot with a 2-0 win over Japan, completing four wins from four in Pool A.
Q2. Who scored India’s goals against Japan?
Abhishek scored in the 15th minute, and captain Harmanpreet Singh added a penalty-corner goal in the 40th minute.
