The Indian U18 Men’s Hockey Team displayed remarkable resilience by defeating arch-rivals Pakistan 5-3 in a thrilling semifinal match of the U18 Men’s Asia Cup 2026. Trailing 2-3 until the final quarter, India staged a brilliant attacking performance in the closing minutes to secure a spot in the summit clash.
The match commenced with a tense start as both teams vied for control in the midfield. India took the lead in the 12th minute with a penalty stroke converted by Ashish Tani Purti (12’), maintaining a 1-0 advantage until the first quarter ended.
Pakistan fought back aggressively in the second quarter, equalizing the score at 1-1 with a field goal by Adeel in the 27th minute. The third quarter witnessed intense action, with India regaining the lead through Shahrukh Ali (35’), only to be equalized by Pakistan’s Muhammad Farhan Aslam (37’) and then overtaken with a penalty corner by Uzair Ahmad Qureshi in the 42nd minute.
In a thrilling final quarter, India launched a relentless offensive, scoring crucial goals through Ashish Tani Purti to secure a 5-3 victory. With this win, India advances to face hosts Japan in the U18 Men’s Asia Cup final.
