New Delhi: Harmanpreet Singh-led Indian hockey team kicked off their campaign on a winning note as they sealed a nervy 4-3 triumph over China in Rajgir, Bihar. Japan, meanwhile, demolished Kazakhstan 7-0.
India head coach Craig Fulton will seek improvement from his side as they were below par against China. Skipper Harmanpreet starred with a sensational hat-trick while Jugraj Singh added another as the hosts dominated with their set-piece display. India are chasing a record fourth Asia Cup crown and will look to keep their winning streak going as the Asia Cup returns to India after 18 years. The hosts are aiming to lift the trophy once again on home soil.
The last time the event was organised in India was back in 2007, when India also won the trophy. Every point in this tournament is crucial, with direct qualification for the 2026 FIH World Cup on the line.
All set for the Sunday blockbuster! 🎬 #HockeyIndia #IndiaKaGame #HumSeHaiHockey #HeroAsiaCupRajgir pic.twitter.com/dS5yy4mG06
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) August 31, 2025
India vs Japan head-to-head record
India have dominated Japan in their head-to-head record. Out of 20 matches, the Men in Blue have triumphed in 17. Japan have managed just two victories, while one match ended in a draw.
Both India and Japan are placed in Pool A, with Japan currently on top due to a superior goal difference. India will look to ensure they secure a win and claim the top spot in the group.
India vs Japan live streaming details
India and Japan are set to lock horns at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium at 3 p.m. Fans can live stream the match on the SonyLiv app and website. The contest will also be telecast live on the Sony Sports Network.
India Squad
Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Krishan Pathak, Suraj Karkera, Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad
Japan Squad
Raiki Fujishima, Yuto Higuchi, Kosei Kawabe, Yamato Kawahara, Yusuke Kawamura, Naru Kimura, Kisho Kuroda, Kazumasa Matsumoto, Ken Nagayoshi, Yosei Oba, Shogo Sasaki, Ryosuke Shinohara, Kaito Tanaka, Seren Tanaka, Keita Watanabe, Hyota Yamada, Shota Yamada, Koji Yamasaki, Manabu Yamashita, Takashi Yoshikawa