India won gold in Hangzhou by defeating Japan 5-1.
The Indian men’s hockey team completed the season with a five-star effort as they continued their dominant display at the Asian Games. As the team’s captain and possibly the finest drag flicker in the world right now, Harmanpreet scored twice as India defeated Japan 5-1 to claim the gold medal.
Asian Games Men’s Hockey Final Highlights: India vs. Japan
Asian Games Men’s Hockey Final: India vs. Japan Highlights (PTI)
Japan started the game with a solid defence, not letting India have a serious chance until the very last second of the first quarter. India was next given a penalty corner, which Japan handled with ease.
In the 25th minute, Manpreet Singh, the athlete who had guided India to a historic bronze medal in Tokyo, broke the tie with a devastating reverse flick.
Two minutes into the third quarter, Harmanpreet added to India’s scoreboard as they increased their advantage to 2-0. Amit Rohidas increased the score to 3-0 by converting a penalty corner four minutes later.
Early in the fourth and final quarter, Abhishek added a fourth goal, and with a minute left before the final buzzer, Harmanpreet sealed the victory with his second goal.
