Eight Indian Scorers Lead 13-1 Victory in Nagoya, Next Game Against Sri Lanka

The Asian Games opened with a bang for Indian hockey as the men’s team overwhelmed Indonesia 13‑1 in Nagoya on September 20. Remarkably, eight different players got on the scoresheet, underscoring the depth of talent in the squad. Dilpreet Singh emerged as the star, netting four goals, while Shilanand Lakra and Sukjit Singh each contributed two. The remaining tally was shared by Abhishek, Rajinder Singh, Mandeep Singh, Harmanpreet Singh and Zugaraj Singh.

Coach Craig Fullton expressed satisfaction with the comprehensive win but reminded his players that improvement is always possible. “We enjoyed a good start and controlled the game, yet there are moments where we missed chances and a defensive lapse that allowed a goal,” Fullton said in a post‑match video.

India built momentum early, taking a 2‑0 lead in the opening quarter. The second quarter saw a flurry of goals that took the score to 7‑0 at halftime. Indonesia’s only goal arrived from a penalty corner in the 33rd minute, but India’s relentless attack pushed the final result to 13‑1.

The team now turns its attention to the next group match against Sri Lanka scheduled for September 22. Fullton indicated that the coaching staff will use the insights from today’s performance to fine‑tune the side’s finishing and defensive organization before the upcoming challenge.