India continued their impressive run at the Asia Cup Hockey 2025 with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Japan in Rajgir, sealing their spot in the Super 4 stage.
The hosts started the match in style, striking early with goals from Mandeep Singh and captain Harmanpreet Singh in the opening minutes of the first quarter. India dominated possession and created several opportunities but were guilty of missing chances that could have put the game to bed early.
Japan made India pay for those misses by pulling one back early in the second half. The goal added tension to the game, with the Japanese side ramping up the pressure. India, however, responded strongly and earned a crucial penalty corner at the end of the third quarter. Harmanpreet Singh, ever-reliable from set pieces, converted to restore India’s two-goal cushion.
The final quarter was anything but comfortable for the hosts. Japan converted a penalty corner in the last minute to make it 3-2, and moments later, Harmanpreet received a yellow card, leaving India to defend with just 10 men. Despite the late drama, India held their nerve to close out the game and secure the all-important win.
With this result, India sit comfortably at the top of Pool A with six points from two matches and have officially booked their place in the Super 4s. They will face Kazakhstan later today at 7:30 PM in their final league match, looking to maintain their unbeaten record.
This win is a big confidence booster for India as they move closer to their title ambitions. Fans can expect more high-intensity action as Asia Cup Hockey 2025 enters its decisive stages.