Aichi-Nagoya, 24 September (H.S.): The Indian women’s kabaddi team maintained its unbeaten run in the group stage of the Asian Games 2026, defeating Japan 50-25 to advance to the semifinals. The defending champions finished at the top of Group A with three consecutive victories.

Led by captain Pushpa Rana, India began the contest on the offensive and kept Japan under sustained pressure throughout the opening half. India went into the interval with a commanding 32-13 lead. The Indian team accumulated 23 points through outs, five bonus points and two all-outs in the first half, establishing a 19-point advantage over Japan.

Japan attempted a comeback after the break and scored 12 points, but India maintained firm control of the contest. The Indian team added 18 points in the second half, including 14 outs, two bonus points and one all-out, eventually sealing a comprehensive 50-25 victory.

India had earlier defeated Bangladesh 42-21 and Iran 37-23 in the group stage. With three wins from three matches, the Indian team secured the top position in Group A and booked its place in the semifinals.

India will face Japan in the semifinal on September 25. The gold-medal match is scheduled to be played on September 26.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar