Indian kabaddi squads maintain unbeaten run, women defeat Japan 50-25

The Indian women’s kabaddi team added another victory to their flawless Asian Games record by beating Japan 50‑25 on Thursday, earning a place in the semi‑finals.

After opening the tournament with a 42‑21 win over Bangladesh and then a 37‑23 triumph against Iran, the women entered the Japan match with confidence. Captain Pooja Rana’s aggressive start helped India build a 32‑13 lead at the interval.

In the opening half the side logged 23 outs and secured five bonus points, plus two all‑out bonuses that gave a 19‑point edge. Japan improved their performance in the second half, accumulating 12 points through eight outs, two bonuses and a super tackle, yet India added 14 outs, two bonuses and an all‑out to seal the win.

The host nation tried to rally, with Yurie opening the second half scoring, but India's swift red tackles and defensive pressure halted the Japanese surge.

The Indian men’s team also kept their perfect Group A streak, defeating Chinese Taipei 37‑21, adding three bonus points and six all‑out points to their tally. Their earlier victory over Bangladesh had already guaranteed a semi‑final slot and a medal.

Both teams now set their sights on the next phase of the competition, with the men’s semi‑final scheduled for September 25.