India Thrash South Korea 8-1 to Set Up Asian Champions Trophy Final Against Japan

India produced a dominant performance to defeat South Korea 8-1 in the semi-final of the Asian Champions Trophy 2026, securing their place in the final against Japan. The hosts delivered an attacking masterclass at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali, with Harmanpreet Singh and Shilanand Lakra playing key roles in the emphatic victory.

India started aggressively and established control early in the contest. South Korea briefly threatened when Han Sangjun found the net in the ninth minute, but the hosts quickly regained their momentum. India responded with relentless attacking pressure, scoring three goals in the opening quarter and another three in the second to take a commanding 6-1 lead at half-time.

Shilanand Lakra and Dilpreet Singh emerged as India’s leading scorers, registering two goals each. Captain Harmanpreet Singh also contributed to the team’s impressive goal tally, while Sukhjeet Singh, Angad Bir Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad scored one goal apiece.

The Indian attack continued to trouble the South Korean defence after the break. The hosts maintained their intensity and added two more goals to complete an overwhelming 8-1 victory. The result further underlined India’s attacking strength and determination to retain control of the continental competition.

India had already defeated South Korea 8-0 during the league stage, making the semi-final result their second convincing victory over the same opponents in the tournament. Meanwhile, Japan secured the other final berth after overcoming Malaysia 5-3 in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw in their semi-final encounter.

India will now face Japan in the title clash on November 5. The hosts will be aiming to secure their sixth Asian Champions Trophy title, extending their record as the most successful team in the tournament’s history.