Indian men's team defeats Japan 4-1 to claim the U-18 Hockey Asia Cup title, while the women's squad finishes with a bronze medal
Kakamigahara: India scripted a memorable chapter in youth hockey history by clinching the gold medal in the 2026 U-18 Men's Hockey Asia Cup after a dominant 4-1 victory over host nation Japan in the final. The triumph was powered by a sensational hat-trick from Ashish Tani Purni, who emerged as the star performer of the championship clash.
The victory in Kakamigahara, Japan, crowned India as the champions of the continental tournament, while the Indian women's U-18 team added to the celebrations by securing the bronze medal, highlighting a successful campaign for Indian hockey on the Asian stage.
India Dominates U-18 Hockey Asia Cup Final Against Japan
The Indian team started aggressively and seized control of the contest from the opening minutes. Their early pressure paid off in just the second minute when Ashish Tani Purni converted a penalty corner to hand India a crucial 1-0 lead.
Japan attempted to respond, but India's disciplined defensive structure prevented the hosts from creating meaningful scoring opportunities. The Indian side continued to dictate possession and tempo throughout the first half.
“India maintained relentless pressure on Japan and controlled the game from the opening whistle to the final quarter.”
Ashish Tani Purni Hat-Trick Seals Historic Gold Medal
India strengthened its grip on the final during the second quarter. Ashish Tani Purni struck again in the 28th minute, doubling the advantage and putting Japan under significant pressure.
Just two minutes later, Captain Ketan Kushwaha produced a clinical field goal after receiving an excellent pass from Prahlad Rajbhar. The goal extended India's lead to 3-0 before halftime and left the hosts with a mountain to climb.
The Indian attack continued to flourish in the third quarter. Ashish completed his hat-trick in the 34th minute by converting another penalty corner, taking the scoreline to 4-0 and effectively putting the match beyond Japan's reach.
Japan managed a consolation goal through Numada Gaku in the 52nd minute via a penalty stroke, but it was too little, too late as India comfortably secured a 4-1 victory.
“Ashish Tani Purni's hat-trick proved decisive as India delivered one of its most commanding performances of the tournament.”
Indian Women's U-18 Team Wins Bronze Medal
While the men's team celebrated continental glory, the Indian women's U-18 hockey team also delivered an impressive performance by finishing third and claiming the bronze medal.
The podium finish further underlined India's growing strength in youth hockey and reflected the progress being made across both men's and women's development pathways.
Hockey India Announces Cash Rewards for Medal Winners
Following the remarkable achievements of both teams, Hockey India announced financial rewards to recognise the players and support staff.
The members of the gold medal-winning Indian men's U-18 team will receive ₹3 lakh each, while every member of the support staff will be awarded ₹1.5 lakh.
Meanwhile, players of the bronze medal-winning Indian women's U-18 team will receive ₹1 lakh each. Members of the women's support staff will be awarded ₹50,000 each.
Indian Hockey's Bright Future on Display
India's success at the U-18 Hockey Asia Cup reflects the depth of emerging talent within the country's hockey ecosystem. The men's team's dominant title-winning campaign and the women's podium finish have provided a significant boost ahead of future international competitions.
With young stars stepping up on the continental stage, Indian hockey continues to build a strong pipeline of talent capable of competing at the highest levels in the years ahead.
