Women's Team Survives a Thriller
The women's final was a heart-stopping contest against arch-rivals Iran, a team that had denied India the gold in the 2018 Jakarta Games. This time, the Indian squad was determined to rewrite history. The match was a see-saw battle from the very beginning.
India started strong, with raiders Pooja and Sanju Devi making an impact, but Iran fought back fiercely. After a tense first half where India held a slender lead, Iran mounted a comeback, closing the gap and even threatening to take control. With the score precariously poised in the final minutes, India's defence held its nerve. In a crucial moment, they executed a vital tackle that effectively sealed the contest. The final whistle blew with India winning 37-34, a testament to their resilience and a sweet redemption for the entire team.
Men's Final: A Battle of Titans
If the women's final was about tension, the men's final was a story of pure intensity and high-stakes drama, once again against a formidable Iranian side. Iran entered the match as the team that broke India's undisputed golden run in 2018, making this a grudge match of epic proportions. The first half was incredibly tight, with neither team giving an inch. Raiders from both sides exchanged blows, and the defenders were on high alert. At the halfway mark, Iran managed to eke out a one-point lead, finishing the half at 18-17. The narrow margin set the stage for a blockbuster second half, with the gold medal hanging in the balance.
A Comeback For The Ages
Trailing at the start of the second half, the Indian men's team showcased their champion mentality. They didn't panic; instead, they regrouped and came out with renewed vigour. Arjun Deshwal powered the attack with his exceptional raiding, while the defence, marshalled by Sumit, began to dominate the Iranian raiders. The turning point came midway through the second half when India inflicted a crucial all-out, turning their deficit into a commanding lead. They outscored Iran 23-16 in the second half, a performance built on tactical superiority and raw determination. This powerful comeback broke Iran's momentum and put India firmly in the driver's seat.
Reclaiming the Golden Throne
As the final minutes ticked away, India held a comfortable lead, a result of their stunning second-half performance. The team played smartly, running down the clock while maintaining a rock-solid defence that gave Iran no chance of a late comeback. The final score of 40-34 in favour of India sparked jubilant celebrations. This victory was more than just a gold medal; it was about reclaiming the title and restoring the natural order of Kabaddi in Asia. The win gave India its ninth men's Kabaddi gold medal in Asian Games history, cementing the legacy of this incredible team.
