India Dominates Japan 5-1 in Asian Champions Trophy, Secures Back-to-Back Wins
India delivered a commanding performance in the Asian Champions Trophy, overpowering Japan 5-1 to secure their second consecutive victory in the tournament. The match, held at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Stadium in Chennai, showcased India’s relentless attacking prowess and solid defensive play, reinforcing their status as strong contenders for the title.
From the opening whistle, India asserted their dominance, with Harmanpreet Singh leading from the front. The captain opened the scoring with a well-executed penalty corner, setting the tone for what would be a one-sided affair. India’s quick and precise passing left Japan scrambling to keep up, as the hosts repeatedly breached their opponent’s defense.
Mandeep Singh doubled the lead soon after, finishing off a slick move that highlighted India’s fluidity and creativity in attack. By halftime, India was firmly in control, and the partisan home crowd could sense another win in the making.
Japan, to their credit, attempted to mount a comeback in the second half. They managed to pull one goal back through a penalty corner, but it proved to be little more than a consolation. India responded swiftly, with Vivek Sagar Prasad and Akashdeep Singh each finding the back of the net to restore their three-goal cushion.
The final blow came from Lalit Kumar Upadhyay, who capped off the scoring with a clinical finish, sealing the emphatic 5-1 victory. India’s ability to control the tempo and exploit Japan’s defensive lapses was on full display, as they continued their unbeaten run in the tournament.
Post-match, Indian coach Craig Fulton praised the team’s performance, particularly their discipline and composure under pressure. “The boys played with great intensity and focus,” Fulton remarked. “We executed our game plan perfectly, and it’s encouraging to see such a strong start to the tournament.”
India’s next challenge will be against Malaysia, a match that promises to test their resilience and tactical adaptability. With two wins from two, India is now riding high on confidence, but they remain focused on the bigger picture: lifting the Asian Champions Trophy. As the tournament progresses, the team’s blend of experience and youth is proving to be a potent mix, leaving fans hopeful for a triumphant campaign.
