The Indian men’s hockey team continued its strong Asian Games 2026 campaign. India defeated South Korea 8-2 in a dominant Pool A match. With this victory, India secured its third consecutive win. Moreover, the team remained at the top of Pool A standings.
Earlier, India defeated Indonesia 13-1 and Sri Lanka 16-1. Therefore, the team strengthened its semifinal chances.
Dilpreet Singh Leads India’s Massive Victory
Striker Dilpreet Singh delivered another outstanding performance against Korea. He scored a brilliant hat-trick during the match. Dilpreet found the net in the 10th, 26th and 32nd minutes. Meanwhile, Abhishek scored twice in the 15th and 38th minutes. Additionally, Shilanand Lakra opened India’s scoring in the fourth minute. Captain Harmanpreet Singh added a goal in the 11th minute.
Rajinder Singh completed India’s scoring with a goal in the 60th minute. However, Korea managed two goals through Kim Jae Ho and Kim Yong Bok.
India Controls Match From The Beginning
India started aggressively and quickly challenged Korea’s defence. The team scored its first goal within four minutes. Shilanand Lakra gave India the early lead. Later, Dilpreet doubled the advantage with a powerful shot from the circle. Harmanpreet converted a penalty corner one minute later. His drag-flick went past the Korean goalkeeper’s left side.
Furthermore, Abhishek scored before the first quarter ended. He received an assist from Shilanand during the move.
India Maintains Pressure Until Final Whistle
During the second quarter, India continued its attacking approach. Dilpreet scored again after tapping Mandeep Singh’s backhand cross. Later, Abhishek scored from a rebound after the goalkeeper stopped Sukhjeet Singh’s attempt. This extended India’s lead to 7-0. However, Korea opened its account through Kim Jae Ho three minutes before the third quarter. The goal reduced Korea’s deficit.
Finally, Rajinder Singh converted a penalty corner seconds before the match ended. His goal sealed India’s 8-2 victory.
India will now face hosts Japan on Saturday. The defending champions will look to continue their unbeaten run.
