JALANDHAR, Oct 30: India continued their winning run at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026, defeating Japan 4-1 to register their third successive victory and secure a place in the semi-finals on Friday.
Abhishek led the charge with a brace (11′, 51′) on his 150th international appearance, while captain Harmanpreet Singh (47′) and Vishnu Kant Singh (56′) also scored for the defending champions. Shota Yamada (15′) netted Japan’s lone goal through a penalty stroke.
India took the lead in the 11th minute through Abhishek, who finished off a fine move involving Vivek Sagar Prasad and Sukhjeet Singh. Japan equalised in the final seconds of the first quarter after Yamada converted a penalty stroke.
The teams remained level at 1-1 at half-time, with Japan putting up a disciplined defensive display.
However, India raised their intensity in the second half. Harmanpreet broke the deadlock in the 47th minute with a powerful drag-flick from India’s first penalty corner of the match.
Abhishek doubled the advantage in the 51st minute, finishing a well-worked move involving Dilpreet Singh and Sanjay. Vishnu Kant then sealed the victory with a superb solo effort in the 56th minute.
Abhishek was named Player of the Match on a memorable evening that saw him reach the 150-cap milestone.
With nine points from three matches and a goal difference of +19, India moved to the top of the standings. Malaysia also have nine points and have secured their semi-final place after beating Bangladesh 6-1.
India will next face Malaysia on November 1 at 7 pm IST in Jalandhar.
