Asian Games: Indian men set for summit clash against Japan

HANGZHOU: The stage is set for a thrilling final at the 19th Asian Games as the Indian men’s hockey team gets ready to face off against the 2018 Asian Games Gold medalist Japan on Friday.

With a chance to secure a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics, both teams will be highly motivated to win the Final and claim the elusive gold medal.

The last time India won the Gold at the Asian Games was back in 2014 in Incheon, South Korea. India have claimed the Asian Games Gold medal thrice since the inception of Field Hockey at the Asian Games, winning the title in 1966, 1998 and in 2014. Meanwhile, Japan’s Gold medal win in Jakarta five years ago has been their only title win in the competition so far.

Speaking on the upcoming final, Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh said: “There are always nerves at play when you enter a big match. We have been preparing for this tournament for a long time and this is the moment that we have all been waiting for. Winning the Gold medal and securing a spot for the Paris Olympics has always been our target.

“As a team, we have to ensure we do not allow the pressure of the moment to dictate our nerves, and that we continue to play freely and enjoy the game. If we are able to do that, I am confident we will be able to get the win.”

India have won all their games so far in the competition, and have already picked up a win over Japan in the Pool stage. In the Pool stage, India defeated Uzbekistan 16-0 and followed it up with a 16-1 win over Singapore. IANS

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