India win 4-3 in Asian Games hockey semi-final

India have defeated Pakistan 4-3 in the semi-final of the men’s hockey event at the ongoing Asian Games. The Harmanpreet Singh-led side secured a 3-0 lead in the second quarter, with the captain scoring twice and Sukhjeet Singh adding once. However, towards the fag end of the second quarter, they conceded a late goal and since then, Pakistan scripted a stunning comback.

The Men in Green scored again in the dying minutes of the third quarter, which certainly boosted the morale of the players. At that time, India were also down a man as Dilpreet was shown a green card. Pakistan capitalised on that and reduced the deficit. 

Pakistan scored again in the 49th minute of the match through Waheed Rana.



India’s defence was left in shambles as they entered from the right side and played a perfect pass inside the box for Waheed to comfortably guide it home. India were then put under further pressure and a penalty was approaching.

However, with 49 seconds remaining on the clock, Abhishek produced a moment of magic to help India secure a 4-3 win and seal their spot in the final. 

This marked the first time in 28 years when both India’s men's and women's hockey teams are in the Asian Games final. The men’s team will next take on the winner of the second semifinal between Malaysia and South Korea. The women’s team, on the other hand, will take on South Korea in the summit clash.