Defending champions India made a commanding start to their Asian Games 2026 men’s hockey campaign, crushing Indonesia 13-1 in their Pool A opener at Kakamigahara on Sunday.
India took control early with two goals in the opening quarter before unleashing a relentless attacking display in the second quarter, scoring five times, including four goals within a four-minute burst.
Indonesia briefly stunned the favourites by scoring at the start of the second half, but the setback only sparked a stronger response from India, who fired six more goals to complete a one-sided victory.
Dilpreet Singh starred with four goals, while Shilanand Lakra and Sukhjeet Singh netted braces. Abhishek Nain, Mandeep Singh, Rajinder Singh, Jugraj Singh and captain Harmanpreet Singh also found the scoresheet as India showcased their depth and attacking prowess.
The emphatic win gives India a perfect start in their bid to retain the Asian Games men’s hockey gold medal and continue their dominance in the continental competition.