India began their defence of the Asian Games men’s hockey crown with a resounding 13-1 victory over Indonesia in their opening Pool A fixture in Nagoya on Sunday.
The Indian attack produced goals through eight different players, with Dilpreet Singh emerging as the standout performer after scoring four times.
Shilanand Lakra broke the deadlock in the sixth minute when he followed up on Harmanpreet Singh’s saved drag-flick to convert the rebound.
Abhishek increased India’s advantage six minutes later by reacting quickest after the Indonesian goalkeeper blocked the initial attempt.
Despite Alam Fajar making several saves, India maintained control and finished the opening quarter two goals ahead.
Five More Goals Before Half-Time
India accelerated their attack in the second quarter as Dilpreet struck twice within a minute in the 18th and 19th minutes.
Rajinder Singh soon added another goal before Mandeep Singh opened his account in the tournament in the 21st minute.
Harmanpreet Singh then converted a penalty corner in the 28th minute, sending India into the interval with a commanding 7-0 lead.
Indonesia finally breached India’s defence in the 33rd minute when captain Aulia Al Ardh converted a penalty corner after a video referral went in their favour.
India responded immediately, with Lakra scoring his second goal in the 35th minute.
Dilpreet completed his hat-trick two minutes later before Sukhjeet Singh added another goal, leaving India 10-1 ahead at the end of the third quarter.
Jugraj Singh converted a penalty corner in the 47th minute, while Sukhjeet added his second goal a minute later following a swift attacking move.
Dilpreet completed his four-goal performance in the 49th minute, helping India seal a comprehensive 13-1 victory.
India will now turn their attention to Sri Lanka as they continue their pursuit of another Asian Games gold medal.
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