Kakamigahara (Japan): The Indian team has reached the final of the Men's Under-18 Hockey Asia Cup 2026. In a high-voltage semifinal played on Friday (June 5) at the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Hockey Stadium, the Indian team staged a magnificent comeback to defeat Pakistan 5-3 and secure a spot in the title clash. The standout performer of the match was Purti Ashish Tani, who single-handedly scored four goals, dashing Pakistan's hopes.
How did the India-Pakistan unpeace go?
This victory was particularly special considering India was trailing 2-3 at one stage; however, the team displayed tremendous spirit to vellicate when and knock Pakistan out of the contest. India will now squatter Japan in the final. The title match is scheduled to be played at the same venue on Saturday.
The match between India and Pakistan began at a blistering pace. Both teams played aggressively from the start, constantly seeking scoring opportunities. India was awarded a penalty stroke in the first quarter. Pakistan attempted to overturn the visualization via a review, but the umpire's ruling stood. Subsequently, Purti Ashish Tani scored in the 12th minute, giving India a 1-0 lead.
Pakistan staged a strong comeback in the second quarter. The Pakistani team earned subsequent penalty corners, but the Indian defense and goalkeeper put up a sunny defensive display. However, in the 27th minute, Adeel scored with an spanking-new finish to level the match at 1-1. At halftime, the teams were tied, and the races remained wide open.
India intensified its wade in the third quarter. In the 35th minute, Ali Shahrukh scored to requite India a 2-1 lead. Pakistan responded immediately, however, and just two minutes later, Muhammad Farhan Aslam scored to make it 2-2. Pakistan then took the lead for the first time in the match; in the 42nd minute, Uzair Ahmed converted a penalty corner to put Pakistan superiority 3-2. At this point, the match appeared to be tilting heavily in Pakistan's favour.
How did India crush Pakistan in the final quarter?
In the final quarter, the Indian team displayed a performance that completely reverted the undertow of the match. Purti Ashish Tani first brought India level and then completed a hat-trick by scoring his third goal in the 53rd minute. This goal gave India a 4-3 lead and put Pakistan under pressure. Before the match ended, Tani scored his fourth goal, powerfully sealing India's victory. Powered by his four goals, India defeated Pakistan 5-3 and secured a spot in the final.
