Chandigarh, November 6, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab celebrated a major milestone in its hockey journey as India defeated Japan 4-1 in the final of the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026, securing a record-extending sixth title and its third consecutive championship.
India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, winning all seven matches — five in the league stage at Jalandhar, followed by the semi-final and final in Mohali. The victory also marked a hat-trick of titles after India’s triumphs in 2023 and 2024.
Japan took an early lead through Kazumasa Matsumoto in the third minute and held a 1-0 advantage at half-time. India fought back in the second half, with Shilanand Lakra equalising in the 42nd minute. Dilpreet Singh put India ahead in the 47th minute, followed by goals from Jugraj Singh in the 52nd minute and Vivek Sagar Prasad in the 53rd minute to seal the 4-1 victory.
Malaysia defeated South Korea 5-2 in the bronze medal match to finish third.
Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh was named Player of the Tournament and also finished as the top scorer with 10 goals. His 10th goal in the competition took his senior international career tally to 250 goals. Goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak was adjudged Goalkeeper of the Tournament for his performances and crucial saves.
The tournament also brought international attention to Punjab’s two hockey venues. The Olympian Balbir Singh Senior Hockey Stadium in Mohali hosted its first international tournament, staging the semi-finals, bronze medal match and final. The venue received appreciation for its facilities, atmosphere and organisation, according to the state government’s statement.
The league stage at Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar also attracted strong crowds. India’s campaign included a 13-0 opening victory over Bangladesh and a 4-2 win against Malaysia.
The tournament has strengthened Punjab’s bid to host the 2030 Hockey World Cup, according to the state government. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has been pursuing the vision of putting Punjab more prominently on the global hockey map.
India’s title triumph in Punjab adds to the team’s momentum ahead of the Los Angeles Olympics 2028.
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