The Indian women’s kabaddi team secured a place in the semifinals of the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya by completing an unbeaten Group A stage with a 50-25 victory over Japan on Thursday.
Defending champions India delivered a comprehensive performance to finish the group stage with three wins from three matches. Captain Pushpa Rana set the tone as India took a commanding 32-13 lead at half-time.
In the first half, India scored 23 out points, earned five bonus points and executed two all-outs, applying continuous pressure on Japan and establishing a 19-point lead at the break.
Japan showed greater resilience after half-time, scoring 12 points through eight out points, two bonus points, and one super tackle during the second half. Nonetheless, India maintained control by adding 18 points via 14 outs, two bonus points, and one all-out, concluding the match 50-25.
This victory capped an impressive group stage for India, who began the tournament with a 42-21 win over Bangladesh before defeating Iran 37-23 on Wednesday.
India will face Japan again in the second semifinal on September 25, seeking to advance to the gold-medal match scheduled for September 26.