New Delhi, 28 September (H.S.): Indian boxer Kapil Pokhariya advanced to the semifinals of the men’s 90kg category at the Asian Games 2026 on Monday after defeating South Korea’s Kim Gichae 5-0 in the quarterfinals. With the victory, Kapil secured another medal for India.

Taking advantage of his height, Kapil adopted an aggressive approach from the very beginning. His left-hand hooks repeatedly found their mark in the opening round, earning him the backing of all five judges as he won the round 5-0.

Kapil continued his attacking style in the second round. He landed several accurate punches and kept sustained pressure on Kim. Following a series of punches from the Indian boxer, the South Korean received a standing count, although he managed to continue the bout. Kapil won the round 5-0 as well, although one judge awarded Kim eight points.

Kim increased his aggression in the third round, but Kapil maintained his advantage through accurate punching and superior control. He remained in command until the final bell.

All five judges ultimately ruled in Kapil’s favour, awarding him a 5-0 victory. With the win, Kapil booked his place in the semifinals and will now look to secure a berth in the gold-medal bout.

Earlier, Indian boxers Lovlina Borgohain and Priya had also secured places in their respective semifinals, ensuring medals for India. Lovlina defeated South Korea’s Seong Su-yeon in the women’s 75kg quarterfinal, while Priya overcame Tajikistan’s Mizgona Samadova in the women’s 60kg quarterfinal.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar