WEB DESK: India has secured a spot in the final of the U18 Hockey Asia Cup 2026, after a thrilling 5-3 win over Pakistan in the second semi-final held at the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Hockey Stadium. The Indian team will now compete against Japan in the championship match scheduled for Saturday at the same venue.
The semi-final match kicked off with both teams displaying aggressive play and swift attacks, resulting in an energetic and fast-paced first quarter.
India took an early lead in the 12th minute, converting a penalty stroke awarded after a successful review that upheld the on-field decision. Purti Ashish Tani confidently scored from the spot, giving the Blue Shirts an advantage.
Pakistan responded vigorously in the second quarter, creating several penalty corner opportunities but failing to capitalize on any of them. The Green Shirts leveled the score in the 27th minute when Adeel executed a precise finish, making it 1-1 before halftime.
The third quarter saw India increase their offensive pressure, while Pakistan remained organized and posed threats on counterattacks. India regained the lead in the 35th minute through Ali Shahrukh’s strike. Pakistan responded quickly, with Muhammad Farhan Aslam scoring in the 37th minute to even the score at 2-2.
Pakistan then took the lead in the 42nd minute when Uzair Ahmed converted a penalty corner, putting the Green Shirts ahead 3-2 as the final quarter approached.
In the last period, India mounted a comeback. Purti Ashish Tani scored from a penalty corner in the 38th minute to level the game once again, and later completed his hat-trick with a goal in the 53rd minute to put India ahead. He added another goal in the closing moments, sealing a comprehensive 5-3 victory.
India will now face Japan in the final showdown at the same venue this Saturday.
