India commenced the semi-final match against Nepal with a vigorous performance, establishing an early lead of 9-5 within the first five minutes. The team efficiently gained points through strategic raids while Nepal attempted to apply pressure on India’s defensive line. Despite their efforts, Nepal struggled to narrow the gap significantly, and India’s robust defence helped to maintain their lead.

The Indian team faced a challenge when Nepal executed a successful super tackle against Sonali, thwarting the raider’s advance towards the scoring line. Nonetheless, India held a five-point advantage, leading 15-10, as Nepal continued to pressurise them in a bid to shift momentum.

India’s Commanding Performance Leads to Victory

The match turned in India’s favour further when Ganga Ghimire from Nepal showcased a remarkable raid, managing to score four points despite being subjected to the ankle holds of Indian defenders. This momentous raid briefly reduced India’s lead to 21-15 with just four minutes remaining in the first half.

However, India regained control as the half progressed. With effective contributions from players like Sanju Devi and Sonali, the team increased its lead to a substantial 31-17 by the halftime whistle. The players’ cohesive teamwork and tactical proficiency became evident as they executed their strategies with precision.

Following the break, India continued to dominate the proceedings, maintaining a secure lead throughout the second half. Eventually, they secured a convincing 48-24 victory over Nepal, earning them a rightful place in the final of the tournament.

Final Match and Overall Performance of Indian Team

India is set to face either Chinese Taipei or Iran in the final match scheduled for Saturday. The women’s kabaddi team aims to defend their title from the previous Asian Games and to contribute another gold medal to India’s overall standing in the competition.

On the broader front, India had a productive day at the Asian Games 2026, particularly excelling in shooting events. Athletes Kamaljeet and Suruchi Inder Singh achieved gold in the mixed team 10m air pistol category. Simultaneously, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Rudrankksh Patil, and Niraj Kumar claimed silver in the men’s 50m rifle 3 positions team event, with Tomar and Niraj advancing to the individual finals.

India also confirmed medal positions in table tennis and squash. Diya Chitale and Manush Shah, along with Joshana Chinappa and Velavan Senthilkumar, advanced to the semifinals of their respective mixed doubles events. Abhay Singh qualified for the men’s singles squash semifinals after a decisive 3-0 victory over Japan’s Ryunosuke Tsukue.

In hockey, India triumphed over Japan with a 3-1 score in the women’s Pool B match. Additionally, swimmers Sajan Prakash, Rishabh Das, and Utkarsh Patil reached their respective finals. On the badminton front, Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto along with Unnati Hooda won their initial matches, showcasing a strong start to their campaigns.

Other notable performances included Indian teams advancing to the Final B in the men’s kayak double 500m category, while the women’s kayak four finished eighth. There were, however, disappointments in fencing, canoe sprint, and swimming events. In athletics, women’s heptathlon competitors Anamika Aneesh and Pooja ranked seventh and ninth, respectively, overall. In esports, India faced a setback, losing to South Korea 0-2 in Pokémon Unite.

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