India successfully defended their
The match began with an unexpected turn of events when Japan took an early lead in the third minute. Kazumasa Matsumoto found space just outside the circle, driving into the area before firing a precise shot into the top corner past goalkeeper Suraj Karkera. This early setback forced India into a period of frantic play, as they spent the majority of the contest pressing deep into Japanese territory without finding a breakthrough.
A Dramatic Turnaround in the Final Quarters
For nearly three quarters, Japan executed a disciplined defensive strategy, frustrating the Indian attack. While India maintained control of the ball and frequently entered the opposition circle, they struggled with their finishing and ball control. It was not until the 42nd minute that the hosts finally leveled the score, with Shilanand Lakra converting a penalty corner variation to ignite the home crowd.
Once the initial defensive wall was breached, the momentum shifted decisively in India's favor. The team regained their characteristic fluidity, scoring three additional goals in the final period to seal the win. Dilpreet Singh found the net in the 48th minute, followed by a penalty corner conversion from Jugraj Singh in the 52nd minute. Vivek Sagar Prasad completed the scoring in the 54th minute, capping off a dominant finish to the tournament.
Tournament Conclusion and Bronze Medal Match
The victory marks a successful title defense for India, who overcame significant pressure and a resilient Japanese side to retain their crown. Throughout the match, India recorded 22 circle entries and 12 shots at goal, compared to Japan's seven entries and two shots. The disciplined efforts of Japanese goalkeepers Kisho Kuroda and Takumi Kitagawa had kept the scoreline tight for much of the evening before the late offensive onslaught.
Earlier in the day, Malaysia secured the bronze medal by defeating Korea 5-2. The match saw goals from Fitri Saari, Faisal Saari, a brace from Abu Kamal Azrai, and a penalty corner strike from Marhan Jalil, overcoming early goals from Korea's Park Geunwoo and Chun Semin. The tournament concluded with India standing atop the podium, having demonstrated their ability to recover from adversity to secure the championship.
