Sonipat, Feb. 3 -- Hisar Heroes delivered a dominant all-round performance to defeat hosts Sonipat Stars 40-26 in Match 21 of the Kabaddi Champions League, becoming the first team to qualify for the semi-finals with a clinical display built on strong defence and timely raids, according to a release.

The contest began with Sonipat Stars taking early control, racing to a 5-1 lead, before Hisar steadied the ship through skipper Ashu Malik, who stepped up in a crucial do-or-die raid to collect two points. Hisar's defence soon found rhythm, and by the first strategic timeout, the scores were level at 5-5.

The second quarter saw the momentum swing decisively as Surjeet Narwal marshalled the defensive unit, helping Hisar inflict an all-out on ...