India’s men’s hockey team delivered a statement performance on home soil, storming back from an early setback to defeat Japan 4-1 in the final of the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026 in Mohali.
The victory secured the defending champions a record-extending sixth title in the competition and a remarkable third consecutive crown.
Japan stunned the hosts with an early field goal from Kazumasa Matsumoto in the third minute, briefly silencing the passionate Punjab crowd. India, however, refused to panic. After a frustrating first half, the team shifted gears after the break, unleashing a clinical attacking display that turned the contest on its head.
Shilanand Lakra opened India’s account from a penalty corner in the 42nd minute. Dilpreet Singh added a field goal six minutes later, before Jugraj Singh converted another set-piece opportunity in the 53rd minute. Vivek Sagar Prasad sealed the emphatic win with a fine strike just a minute later, completing a four-goal second-half blitz.
The result underlined India’s growing dominance in Asian hockey. Having already beaten Japan 4-1 earlier in the tournament’s league stage in Jalandhar, the hosts proved their superiority when it mattered most. The triumph also continues a rich recent history in the competition, following previous titles in 2011, 2016, 2018, 2023, and 2024.
For captain Harmanpreet Singh and his squad, the win on home soil carries special significance. The tournament, co-hosted across Jalandhar and Mohali, showcased the depth and resilience of Indian hockey, with the team remaining unbeaten throughout the event.
As Hockey India celebrated the “back-to-back champions,” the performance reaffirmed the team’s status as Asia’s premier side and set a strong tone ahead of future international challenges.
