India ended their eight-year wait for the Asia Cup title with a commanding 4-1 victory over Korea in the final on Sunday, sealing a place in the 2026 World Cup.
The hosts got off to a dream start as Sukhjeet Singh opened the scoring within the first 30 seconds, assisted by captain Harmanpreet Singh’s dazzling run through the Korean midfield. Dilpreet Singh added two goals while Amit Rohidas struck in the final quarter to complete a dominant display. This marked India’s fourth Asia Cup triumph, their first since lifting the title in Dhaka in 2017.
The win capped an unbeaten campaign for the hosts, who showed greater discipline compared with their earlier encounter with Korea in the tournament, when defensive lapses cost them goals despite taking the early lead. On Sunday, India displayed calmness in defence and patience in possession, preventing the Koreans from capitalising on their high-pressure tactics.
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Dilpreet’s brace came after Sanjay’s driving run set up the second goal in the 28th minute, followed by another clinical move in the third quarter. Rohidas then converted from a penalty corner in the 50th minute to make it 4-0. Korea responded with a late consolation when Son Dain scored from a penalty corner variation in the 51st minute, but India’s defence held firm to secure the title.
Earlier in the day, Malaysia secured third place with a 4-1 victory over China. A brace from Akhimullah Anuar and goals from Norsyafiq Sumantri and Syed Cholan ensured a podium finish, while Gao Jiesheng pulled one back for China.
Japan claimed fifth place with a resounding 6-1 win over Bangladesh, powered by a hat-trick from Ryosuke Shinohara. Koji Yamasaki, Ken Nagayoshi and Seren Tanaka also found the net, while Amirul Islam scored the lone goal for Bangladesh.
India’s triumph not only ended their long wait for continental glory but also confirmed their berth at the 2026 World Cup, providing a boost to their preparations on the global stage.
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