The Indian U18 Men’s Hockey Team defeated Pakistan 5-3 in a thrilling semi-final at the U18 Asia Cup 2026 in Kakamigahara. Trailing 2-3 until the final quarter, India launched a late surge led by Ashish Tani Purti, who scored four goals, including a hat-trick from penalty corners. The victory books India’s place in the final against hosts Japan on Saturday.
Kakamigahara: The Indian U18 Men's Hockey Team showed incredible character to defeat arch-rivals Pakistan 5-3 in a high-voltage semi-final match of the U18 Men's Asia Cup 2026 on Friday.
Trailing 2-3 until the final quarter, India produced an outstanding attacking display in the final minutes to secure their place in the summit clash, according to a press release.
The match began with a quiet and tense opening, as both teams fought hard for control in the midfield. India found their rhythm in the 12th minute when a brilliant run from their own half forced a defensive error from Pakistan, earning India a penalty stroke. Forward Ashish Tani Purti (12') stepped up and calmly converted it to give India an early 1-0 lead, which they maintained until the end of the first quarter.
Pakistan came out playing aggressively in the second quarter and won their first penalty corner in the 16th minute. Indian goalkeeper Ayush Rajak and defender Ansh Bahutra combined perfectly to save a powerful dragflick from Ahmad Uzair. Pakistan kept pressing and found their equaliser in the 27th minute when Adeel intercepted a pass, broke through the defence, and scored a field goal to make it 1-1 at halftime.
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