Nagoya, Sep 29: Indian boxers Parveen Hooda and Ankush Panghal booked their places in the Asian Games 2026 finals with commanding semifinal victories on Tuesday, keeping India in contention for two more gold medals.
Parveen Hooda advanced to the women's 65kg final of the Asian Games 2026, defeating China's Li Shu 5-0 by unanimous decision in the semifinal at the Nishio Gymnasium here on Tuesday. Both boxers had already been assured of at least a bronze medal, but with the win, Parveen now has a chance at silver or Gold. The Indian boxer will now face Chen Nien-chin of Chinese Taipei on Friday.
Parveen continued her impressive campaign in Nagoya by booking a place in the boxing final with another assured display. The 26-year-old earlier produced
a dominant performance against Uzbekistan's Navbakhor Khamidova, securing a comprehensive 5-0 quarterfinal win. Her ability to use her reach effectively, combined with precise counter-attacking, allowed her to control the contest from start to finish.
Chinese boxer Li Shu, who had narrowly defeated Kazakhstan's Aida Abikeyeva in her quarterfinal bout, faced a similar challenge against Parveen. Despite her efforts, Li struggled to break through the Indian's disciplined defence and tactical approach, as Parveen maintained control throughout the semifinal.
The latest victory carries additional significance for Parveen, who is seeking to rebuild her career after losing the bronze medal she had won at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games. The medal was withdrawn following a whereabouts violation, making her current run an important opportunity to move forward from that setback.
With a place in the gold-medal bout secured, Parveen now has a chance to finish her campaign on the highest possible note. She is also among six Indian boxers to reach the semifinals in Nagoya, taking India's medal tally beyond the four medals won at Hangzhou.
Ankush Panghal Storms Into Final of Men's 80kg
India's Ankush Panghal advanced to the men's 80kg final after defeating Uzbekistan's Fazilddin Erkinboev in a closely contested semifinal. Panghal secured a 4-1 victory on the judges' scorecards, producing his strongest performance in the decisive third round, which he won unanimously 5-0.
The Indian boxer remained composed throughout the contest and effectively dealt with Erkinboev's challenge to secure his place in the title bout. The victory marks another important step in Panghal's campaign as he now has an opportunity to fight for the gold medal. His impressive semifinal display also strengthens India's medal hopes in the boxing competition.
