India Dominates South Korea in Asian Games 2026 Hockey Match

In a thrilling match at the Asian Games 2026, India's hockey team showcased their dominance by defeating South Korea 8-2. With standout performances from Dilpreet Singh and Abhishek, the team secured their third consecutive win in Pool A. The match saw India take an early lead and maintain pressure throughout, ultimately solidifying their position for a semifinal spot. As they prepare to face Japan next, this victory highlights India's strength in the tournament. Read on for a detailed breakdown of the match and key moments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 24, 2026, 15:46 IST

India's Impressive Victory in Hockey

Photo: @TheKhelIndia/X

Kakamigahara, Sep 24: The Indian hockey team, the reigning champions, maintained their winning streak at the Asian Games 2026 by securing their third consecutive victory in Pool A.

In a clash of four-time champions, India triumphed over South Korea with a score of 8-2, marking the first defeat for the 2006 champions in this stage of the tournament.

Key players Dilpreet Singh and Abhishek each netted two goals, while contributions from Shilanand Lakra, captain Harmanpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, and Rajinder Singh ensured a significant win, bringing India closer to a semifinal berth.

Shilanand initiated the scoring in the fourth minute, followed by Sukhjeet who extended the lead to 2-0. The Indian team maintained their momentum, earning a penalty corner shortly after, which was successfully converted by the captain, making it 3-0. Manpreet's aerial pass found Lakra, who assisted Abhishek for a 4-0 lead by the end of the first quarter.

Continuing their dominance in the second quarter, Lakra posed a constant threat. Despite South Korea's attempts to intercept, India struck again in the 26th minute when Abhishek set up Mandeep, whose reverse push was deftly redirected by Dilpreet, bringing the halftime score to 5-0.

During the second quarter, Amit Rohidas and Jarmanpreet Singh received green cards, yet India remained in control. They scored again in the 32nd minute when Hardik's pass found Dilpreet, who executed a reverse hit to complete his brace.

India's defense held strong against South Korea's first penalty corner, while the offense continued to shine. Abhishek scored again in the 38th minute, making it 7-0 after Raj Kumar's shot hit the crossbar.

South Korea managed to score their first goal in the closing minutes of the third quarter, with JaeHo Kim finding the net in the 42nd minute, reducing the deficit to 7-1.

In the final quarter, Korea created several opportunities, including penalty corners, and Yong Bok Kim capitalized on a defensive lapse to score another goal. However, India pushed for more and sealed the match with Rajinder converting a penalty corner, finalizing the score at 8-2. India is set to face the host nation, Japan, on Saturday.