India secures semifinals spot with 4-1 win over Japan

The Indian men’s hockey team has booked a place in the semifinals of the Asian Champions Trophy 2026 after a 4-1 victory against Japan at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar. Abhishek Nain marked his 150th international appearance by scoring two goals in the 11th and 51st minutes. Captain Harmanpreet Singh added a goal via a penalty corner in the 47th minute, while Vishnukant Singh scored in the 56th minute to seal the win.

Japan’s lone goal was scored by Shota Yamada through a penalty stroke in the 15th minute. Despite facing heavy pressure from Japan during the first three quarters, India’s decisive performance in the final quarter secured their third consecutive win in the tournament. India previously defeated Bangladesh 13-0 and China 5-2.

In other tournament action, Malaysia secured its third win with a 6-1 victory over Bangladesh, while South Korea earned its first win by defeating China 2-1. India and Malaysia currently lead the standings, both having recorded three wins each.