Kakamigahara, June 5 -- The Indian U18 Men's Hockey Team showed incredible character to defeat arch-rivals Pakistan 5-3 in a high-voltage semi-final match of the U18 Men's Asia Cup 2026 on Friday.

Trailing 2-3 until the final quarter, India produced an outstanding attacking display in the final minutes to secure their place in the summit clash, according to a press release.

The match began with a quiet and tense opening, as both teams fought hard for control in the midfield. India found their rhythm in the 12th minute when a brilliant run from their own half forced a defensive error from Pakistan, earning India a penalty stroke. Forward Ashish Tani Purti (12') stepped up and calmly converted it to give India an early 1-0 lead, which the...