Indian U-18 Hockey Teams Advance to Semi-Finals of Asia Cup 2026

The Indian U-18 Women's and Men's Hockey Teams have both advanced to the Semi-Finals of the U-18 Asia Cup 2026 in Japan. The women's team dominated Pool A with a stunning 30 goals scored, while the men's team secured their spot with a total of 32 goals. Both teams are set to face formidable opponents in the Semi-Finals, with the women's team taking on China and the men's team facing Pakistan. Coaches Rani and Sardar Singh express confidence in their teams' preparations and strategies as they aim for a place in the finals.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 4, 2026, 15:24 IST

Indian U-18 Women's Team's Impressive Performance

The Indian U-18 Women's Team, alongside the U-18 Men's Team, is gearing up for the Semi-Finals of the U-18 Asia Cup 2026, taking place in Kakamigahara, Japan. The women's team dominated Pool A, securing the top position by winning all three of their matches convincingly.

Throughout the Pool stage, the team showcased their prowess by scoring a remarkable 30 goals while allowing only two. Their campaign kicked off with a narrow 2-1 victory over Malaysia, followed by a solid 3-1 win against Korea. They capped off their pool matches with an astonishing 25-0 triumph over Singapore, ensuring their top spot.

Leading the scoring for India is Nousheen Naz, who has netted 10 goals. Geethasri Nammi follows with five goals, while captain Sweety Kujur and Priyanka Minz have contributed four and three goals, respectively.

Coach Rani Prepares for Semi-Final Against China

India's next challenge is against China, who secured second place in Pool B with two wins and a draw. This Semi-Final is scheduled for June 5 at 9:30 AM IST. Coach Rani expressed her pride in the team's journey, noting, "This is the first international tournament for these girls, and they have risen to the occasion remarkably. Our focus is solely on the Semi-Final against China, prioritizing our standards and attacking play."

She emphasized the team's fitness and coordination, stating, "The girls will fight for every ball, leverage counter-attacks, and strive to secure a place in the final."

Indian U-18 Men's Team Advances to Semi-Finals

In parallel, the Indian U-18 Men's Hockey Team finished second in Pool A, achieving three wins and one loss. They scored a total of 32 goals while conceding just six.

The men's team began their tournament with a commanding 13-0 victory over Kazakhstan but faced a setback with a 4-2 loss to Japan. They rebounded with a 4-1 win against Korea and concluded their pool stage with a decisive 13-1 victory over Chinese Taipei, securing their Semi-Final spot.

Captain Ketan Kushwaha leads the scoring for the men's team with seven goals, while Ashish Tani Purti has netted six. Gazee Khan and Shahrukh Ali have each contributed three goals.

Coach Sardar Singh's Game Plan for Pakistan Match

The Indian U-18 Men's Team is set to face Pakistan in Semi-Final 2 on June 5 at 3:30 PM IST. Pakistan topped Pool B with two wins and one loss. Ahead of the match, Coach Sardar Singh highlighted the team's focus on improving specific areas, particularly penalty corner strategies.

He stated, "We have been refining our approach in separate groups to ensure we are fully prepared. The players now grasp the demands of modern hockey and what it takes to succeed at this level. We aim to start strong and maintain that energy throughout the match, relying on our unity and disciplined play."

Upcoming Fixtures

The Indian U-18 Women's Hockey Team will compete against China in Semi-Final 1 on June 5 at 9:30 AM IST.

The Indian U-18 Men's Hockey Team will take on Pakistan in Semi-Final 2 on June 5 at 3:30 PM IST.