New Delhi, Nov 5: India continued their dominance in the Asian Champions League, defeating Japan 4-1 in the final at the Olympian Balbir Singh International Hockey Stadium in Mohali on Thursday to secure an unprecedented third consecutive title.
Having lifted the trophy in 2023 and 2024, the Indian men's team completed another successful campaign, remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament across Jalandhar and Mohali.
Shilanand Lakra, Dilpreet Singh, Jugraj Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad were on target for India, while Kazumasa Matsumoto scored Japan's solitary goal.
Despite the convincing margin, India had to overcome an early setback. Japan took the lead in the third minute when Matsumoto found space on the left and unleashed a powerful reverse-hit
past goalkeeper Suraj Karkera.
India responded with sustained attacking pressure but struggled to break through Japan's disciplined defence. The visitors defended resolutely, making crucial interceptions and tackles inside their circle.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 42nd minute. India earned a penalty corner, with Harmanpreet Singh attempting a variation that was initially stopped by goalkeeper Kisho Kuroda. However, India retained possession, and Shilanand Lakra capitalised on Aditya Lalage's excellent flick pass to score from close range.
Japan challenged the goal, arguing that Aditya's pass was dangerously raised, but the TV umpire upheld the on-field decision.
India shifted gears in the final quarter, taking complete control of proceedings. Dilpreet Singh put India ahead in the 48th minute after Hardik Singh produced an excellent piece of control before setting him up with a precise pass.
Five minutes later, Jugraj Singh converted a penalty corner with a powerful drag-flick to extend India's advantage to 3-1.
Vivek Sagar Prasad completed the scoring in the 54th minute with a superb half-volley finish. After Shilanand's initial attempt was saved, Vivek reacted quickly to find the back of the net.
Japan attempted to fight back in the closing stages but could not mount a comeback as India comfortably sealed their sixth Asian Champions League crown. Japan, meanwhile, continued their wait for a maiden title.
Earlier in the day, Malaysia defeated South Korea 5-2 to secure third place in the tournament.
