India win Asian Games hockey gold, qualify for Olympics

NAGOYA: India has won the gold medal in men’s hockey at the 2026 Asian Games after defeating Malaysia 5-1 in the final. The victory has helped India create history by successfully defending the title for the first time. India had won gold at the 2023 Asian Games. The triumph has also secured India’s qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. This is India’s fifth gold medal in men’s hockey at the Asian Games.

Harmanpreet Singh (11', 57'), Jugraj Singh (23'), Hardik Singh (42') and Shilanand Lakra (54') scored for India. Two of India’s goals came from penalty corners. Malaysia looked to play on the counter and made quick moves. The first quarter was a closely fought battle as Malaysia attacked with great pace. The scores were level at 1-1 during this phase.

However, India took control after the second quarter and went on to score five goals to seal the match. Malaysia's only goal came in the 14th minute, with Shello Silverius scoring from a field effort. India earned a total of 14 penalty corners, while Malaysia had three. Earlier, India had also won gold in women's hockey, defeating defending champions China 1-0 in the final.