Goa, Nov. 5 -- Defending champions India mounted a spectacular second-half comeback against Japan in the Asian Champions Trophy 2026 final in Mohali. Trailing 0-1 after an early 3rd-minute goal by Japan's Kazumasa Matsumoto, India broke through Japan's resolute defense in the third quarter via Shilanand Lakra. The home side surged ahead in the final quarter with goals from Dilpreet Singh and Jugraj Singh, establishing a 3-1 lead to put them on the verge of retaining their Asian title.

Defending champions India rallied from an early setback to take a commanding 3-1 lead against Japan in the final of the Asian Champions Trophy 2026 at the International Hockey Stadium in Mohali.

The high-stakes summit clash began on an unexpected note for ...