Asian Games 2026: India beats Malaysia to defend men’s hockey gold, qualify for Los Angeles Olympics

Indian hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh celebrates after winning the final match at the Asian Games 2026 hockey medal match against Malaysia on October 2, 2026 | Photo Credit: Reuters Reigning Olympic bronze medallist India hammered Malaysia 5-1 to defend their men's hockey gold in the Asian Games in Kakamigahara on Saturday (October 3, 2026), and the triumph also secured them a direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.While writing a new chapter in the history of Indian hockey, the eight-time Olympic champions also clinched their fifth Asian Games gold, and the second in a row for the first time.Asian Games 2026 LIVE updatesThe Indians made an attacking start as the play was mostly in the Malaysian half in the first quarter.India converted three penalty corners through skipper Harmanpreet Singh (11th, 57th minutes) and Jugraj Singh (23rd), while vice-captain Hardik Singh scored from a penalty stroke in the 42nd minute and Shilanand Lakra completed the formalities with a field goal in the 54th minute.Malaysia's lone goal was scored by Shello Silverius from a field effort in the 14th minute.Malaysia secured the silver, while Pakistan won the bronze by defeating South Korea 5-3 earlier in the day.It was double glory for Indian hockey from the Asian Games as the women's team also won the gold after 44 years, stunning reigning Olympic silver medallist and defending champions China 1-0 on Friday. Published - October 03, 2026 05:38 pm IST