Kakamigahara: India defeated Malaysia 5-1 in the men's hockey final at the Asian Games on Saturday to retain their gold medal and secure direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The victory marked India's fifth Asian Games gold in men's hockey and their second consecutive title. It was also the first time India had successfully defended the men's hockey gold at the Asian Games.

Captain Harmanpreet Singh led the scoring with two goals, converting penalty corners in the 11th and 57th minutes. Jugraj Singh added another penalty-corner goal in the 23rd minute.

Vice-captain Hardik Singh converted a penalty stroke in the 42nd minute, while Shilanand Lakra completed India's tally with a field goal in the 54th minute.

Malaysia's only goal came in the 14th minute through Shello Silverius, who scored from a field effort.
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India dominated possession and territory early in the match, spending much of the opening quarter in the Malaysian half.

Malaysia settled for the silver medal, while Pakistan claimed bronze after defeating South Korea 5-3 earlier on Saturday.

The men's team's triumph came a day after India's women's team also won Asian Games gold. The women defeated defending champions and reigning Olympic silver medallists China 1-0 on Friday to claim the title after a 44-year wait.

PTI