India Edge Japan 3-2 as Goalkeeper Krishan Pathak Marks 150th International Match With Vital Saves

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In a dramatic Pool A match at the Men's Hockey Asia Cup in Rajgir, India beat Japan 3-2 to qualify for the Super 4s round. The win, secured on a hot and humid afternoon, was driven by captain Harmanpreet Singh's double and an early goal by veteran Mandeep Singh, but also showed consistent defensive shake-ups even as custodian Krishan B. Pathak and young gun Suraj Karkera made gallant efforts.

India edge Japan 3-2 in tense battle

India scored the first goal in rapid succession. In the 4th minute, Mandeep Singh seized on a baseline dash by Sukhjeet Singh, poking home the first goal. A minute thereafter, India had a penalty corner; following two attempts, Harmanpreet released a ferocious flick that deflected off the Japanese keeper and went into the net.

Japan fought back. Kosei Kawabe reduced the gap in the 38th minute, employing a clever reverse hit within the circle to reduce the deficit by half. As momentum seemed to be with the visitors, India struck the third goal. Harmanpreet released a penalty corner flick screaming through the goalkeeper's legs just at the start of the third quarter.

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The fourth quarter introduced fresh tension. Suraj Karkera, newly introduced, made two stunning saves to keep Japan from further chances. But Kawabe scored again with just a minute left, taking advantage of a rebound to score the 3-2 goal. India, though, remained resolute. A late yellow card to Harmanpreet reduced them to 10 men, but their calm under stress carried them through for the win.

Pathak shines as India top Pool A

India goalkeeper Krishan B. Pathak marked his 150th international outing, his exposure proving priceless in delivering vital saves, particularly in trying situations. Concerns, however, remained over the team's finishing, numerous field-goal chances went astray, which coach Craig Fulton criticized, bemoaning missed opportunities during a game disrupted by humidity and defensive shortcomings.

With this victory, India leads Pool A with six points, having edged China 4-3 in their first match. India will play their last Pool A match against Kazakhstan on September 1, which could be used by them as a warm-up before action in Super 4s commences.

Can India’s grit carry them to World Cup?

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Looking forward, the progress of the Indian team to the Super 4s, comprising the top two teams from each pool in a round-robin stage, edges them closer to clinching the title as well as a direct qualification to the 2026 Hockey World Cup.

India's win may have been far from flawless, but it definitely displayed grit and leadership. As the team advances to the Super 4s, they will aim to address their work on finishing and defensive discipline as well as reinforce the positives from the solid opening game.