• By Manik Sharma
  • Thu, 28 Sep 2023 09:04 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND
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In a thrilling encounter at the Asian Games, India's hockey team showcased its dominance by securing a 4-2 triumph against defending champions Japan. Abhishek was the star of the match, scoring two crucial field goals, while Mandeep Singh and Amit Rohidas also made their mark on the scoreboard.

India's impressive performance marked their third consecutive victory in the tournament, placing them firmly on the path to the semi-finals. India has scored a staggering 36 goals in their three matches in Pool A.

World number three India controlled ball possession and dictated the proceedings. Both teams got the penalty corner in the early minutes of the game, but failed to convert it.

It was Abhishek who broke the deadlock by scoring a reverse-stick goal in the 13th minute of the game, courtesy of an assist from Hardik Singh.

India's lead doubled in the 24th minute when Mandeep dived to deflect Nilkanta's pass into the net.

After the change of ends, India secured their fourth penalty corner, and the third goal of the match was converted by Rohidas with a powerful drag-flick to the top right corner of Japan's goal.

Early in the final quarter, Abhishek once again found the mark, combining effectively with Mandeep to secure his second goal of the day, bringing India's tally to four.

Japan, however, refused to surrender without a fight, mounting a late comeback with two quick goals in the last five minutes of the match. Japan’s Genki Mitani and Ryosei Kato prevented PR Sreejesh from securing his second clean sheet at the Asian Games 2023.

India will face arch-rivals Pakistan in their next Pool A match on September 30 at 6:15 PM IST, promising another intense battle on the hockey field.

The winner of the Asian Games will directly qualify for the Paris Olympics 2024, scheduled to be held next year.