From an early setback to a spectacular second-half surge, defending champions India showcased their class, character and champion spirit to retain the Men’s Hockey Asian Champions Trophy 2026, defeating Japan 4-1 in a thrilling final at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Stadium on Thursday.
Their disciplined defence kept the Indian attack at bay through the first half, leaving the hosts trailing 0-1 at the break. The momentum was firmly with the hosts as Jugraj Singh unleashed a thunderous penalty-corner drag-flick in the 53rd minute to make it 3-1. Vivek Sagar Prasad completed the rout with a powerful half-volley off a rebound, sealing a memorable 4-1 victory.
Japan gave India early jitters, taking the lead through Matsumoto’s fourth-minute strike. But India returned with renewed intent after the interval. Shilanand Lakra restored parity in the 42nd minute, converting a brilliant pass from Aditya after sustained Indian pressure. Dilpreet Singh then put India ahead in the 49th minute with a superb finish following Hardik Singh’s persistence inside the circle. “I would have been happier if Indian captain Harmanpreet had scored in the match. I just adore him.
But I am really happy that we could witness such a match in Mohali,” said a local hockey fan.
