India thrash Pakistan to storm into U18 Hockey Asia Cup 2026 final

India cruised into the final of the Under-18 Hockey Asia Cup 2026 final after crushing Pakistan 5-3 in a thrilling second semi-final clash at the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Hockey Stadium on June 5. Right from the opening whistle, both sides showcased immense intensity and attacking intent, which set the tone for a fast-paced and highly competitive opening quarter.

India down Pakistan to make U-18 Hockey Asia Cup final

The deadlock was broken in the 12th minute when India was awarded a penalty stroke. Pakistan opted for a video review to challenge the umpire's ruling, but the on-field decision stood, allowing Purti Ashish Tani to step up and confidently convert from the spot to give the Blue Shirts an early 1-0 lead.

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Pakistan responded strongly as the match headed into the second quarter. The Green Shirts created multiple scoring opportunities, earning consecutive penalty corners, but they initially struggled to break through India's defensive line.

Their persistence finally paid off in the 27th minute when Adeel produced a moment of individual quality. His clinical finish successfully brought Pakistan back on level terms, sending both teams into the half-time break locked at 1-1.

The high-stakes drama continued into the third quarter, with the Indian team pushing forward with renewed urgency to reclaim the lead. Pakistan, however, remained highly disciplined in defense while continuing to look incredibly dangerous on the counter-attack.

Purti Ashish Tani's brilliant hat-trick sinks Pakistan

India took the lead in the 35th minute through a strike from Ali Shahrukh, making it 2-1. However, Pakistan responded almost immediately, with Muhammad Farhan Aslam finding the back of the net in the 37th minute to quickly restore parity at 2-2. Momentum shifted further in Pakistan's favor just a few minutes later when Uzair Ahmed successfully converted a penalty corner in the 42nd minute, putting the Green Shirts ahead 3-2 as the match headed into the final quarter.

The final period, however, belonged entirely to India and the high-flying Purti Ashish Tani. After India earned a penalty corner, Tani leveled the contest once again before continuing his sensational run to complete a brilliant hat-trick in the 53rd minute, putting India back in front at 4-3. As the clock ticked down, Tani put the game completely out of reach by firing in his fourth goal of the match. The late surge allowed India to take full control of the encounter and seal a memorable 5-3 victory. With the thrilling semi-final win secured, India is now set to face tournament hosts Japan in the grand finale at the same venue on June 6.