India vs Japan, Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Highlights: Harmanpreet Singh nets brace; India beat Japan 3-2
THE TIMES OF INDIA | Aug 31, 2025, 16:58:59 IST
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India vs Japan, Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Highlights: Harmanpreet Singh nets brace; India beat Japan 3-2

India vs Japan, Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: India, the world’s seventh-ranked men’s hockey team and Asia’s No.1, were handed a wake-up call in their Asia Cup opener at Rajgir by China. The visitors dominated large spells, exploiting Indian errors in structure and discipline to win six penalty corners, converting three.

India, traditionally strong in defending PCs, looked vulnerable, prompting coach Craig Fulton and rusher Amit Rohidas to admit the need for quick corrections ahead of their next clash with Japan. Fulton stressed that as the tournament favourites, India will face heightened intensity from every opponent.

Harmanpreet Singh, returning from injury concerns, provided a silver lining with a hat-trick, including a stunning winner into the top corner, though he also missed chances. Hardik Singh’s link-up play with Mandeep Singh stood out, but the goalkeepers must improve to ease pressure on the defence.

Adding to the difficulty is the scorching heat, which has drained players across matches, though brief rain offered some relief. India will take confidence from their recent dominance over Japan, winning four of the last five meetings, but Japan’s 7-0 thrashing of Kazakhstan and their ability to hold India 1-1 in the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy suggest the contest won’t be easy.
16:58 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Full-time! IND 3-2 JPN
India secure another hard-fought victory, edging past Japan 3-2. Despite Japan’s late surge and relentless pressure, India’s composure, key goals from Mandeep and Harmanpreet, and solid goalkeeping ensure they hold on for the win.
16:55 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: GOAL! IND 3-2 JPN
After sustained pressure, Japan finally break through with a field goal from Kawabe Kosei, cutting India’s lead. With just over a minute remaining in the match, the tension rises as India look to hold on for victory.
16:52 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: India lose referral, PC to Japan
India lose a referral, and a penalty corner is awarded to Japan. The hosts will now have to defend sharply as Japan look to capitalise on this opportunity to close the gap.
16:48 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Japan pushing now; India holding onto their 2-goal lead
Japan are pushing hard in attack, trying to break down India’s defense, but the Indian team is holding firm. With disciplined defending and smart positioning, they manage to maintain their two-goal lead as the game intensifies.
16:43 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Final quarter begins; Suraj Karkera saves India
Suraj Karkera is brilliant between the posts, making crucial saves to keep India ahead. His sharp reflexes and confident positioning frustrate Japan’s attackers, ensuring the team maintains control of the game.
16:36 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: GOAL! India 3-1 Japan
Harmanpreet Singh steps up and converts the penalty corner, restoring India’s two-goal cushion. His precise strike under pressure underscores his experience and keeps India firmly in control of the match after the third quarter.
16:35 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: PC for India
As the hooter blows to end the quarter, India are awarded a penalty corner, giving them a last chance to extend their lead before the break. It’s a tense moment as the team looks to capitalise on the opportunity.
16:30 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: GOAL! India 2-1 Japan
Kawabe Kosei breaks the deadlock after halftime, scoring for Japan and reducing India’s lead. His well-timed strike gives Japan a boost of confidence as they look to mount a comeback.
16:09 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: At halftime, it is IND 2-0 JPN
Both teams create chances here and there in the second quarter, but neither manages to find the back of the net. The score remains 2-0 in favour of India as the first half comes to a close.
16:03 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: It's still IND 2-0 JPN in Q2
Japan earn multiple penalty corners, but they remain wasteful with their offensive approach, failing to capitalise on the opportunities. Their inability to convert allows India to maintain control and keep the scoreboard pressure high.
15:59 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: India down to 10 men
Amit Rohidas has been shown a green card, meaning he will serve a brief suspension and leave the field for two minutes. This gives Japan a temporary numerical advantage, and India will need to manage the short-handed situation carefully.
15:56 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Ball inside the goal, but it wouldn't count
The second quarter begins. India managed to get the ball into the net, but the goal was disallowed as the shot came from outside the striking circle. In field hockey, only goals scored from within the circle are valid, so despite the effort, the scoreboard remains unchanged.
15:48 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Q1 ends; India 2-0 Japan
The first quarter ends with India leading Japan 2-0. Mandeep Singh opened the scoring with a field goal, followed by Harmanpreet Singh’s precise penalty corner conversion. India dominated possession, controlled the midfield, and put constant pressure on Japan, who struggled to create meaningful chances.
15:46 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Japan win their first PC, but they squander the chance, thanks to Krishan Pathak
Japan win their first penalty corner but fail to make it count, as goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak stands tall with a sharp save. His reflexes deny Japan any opening, keeping India firmly in control.
15:43 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: India so strong in the midfield
India are dominating the midfield, controlling possession and dictating the pace of the game. Their sharp passing, quick transitions, and relentless pressure are keeping Japan on the back foot and creating constant opportunities in the attacking circle.
15:36 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: GOAL! IND 2-0 JPN
Harmanpreet Singh converts from a penalty corner, adding to India’s lead. After being awarded multiple PCs, it was only a matter of time before the experienced captain made his mark, showcasing his composure and lethal finishing.
15:30 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: GOAL! IND 1-0 JPN
Mandeep Singh strikes early with a brilliant field goal, giving India the first blood in the match. His precise finish and sharp movement in the circle set the tone, putting the hosts ahead and energising the team in the opening minutes.
15:27 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Q1 begins; India in blue colours, Japan in red
The first quarter kicks off with India in their traditional blue jerseys and Japan in striking red. Both teams look focused and ready, as the opening minutes promise a fast-paced and intense battle on the field.
15:20 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: A new milestone for Krishan Bahadur Pathak
Krishan Bahadur Pathak is set to make his 150th international appearance in the national colours today. It is a remarkable milestone for the 28-year-old, also a testament to his consistency and dedication to Indian hockey.
15:13 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: India vs Japan – confirmed lineups
Japan (starters)

Yamasaki Koji, Yamada Shota, Higuchi Yuto, Kawahara Yamato, Tanaka Seren, Matsumoto Kazumasa, Yamashita Manabu, Fujishima Raiki (c), Nagayoshi Ken, Kawabe Kosei, Yoshikawa Takashi (goalkeeper)

Substitutes: Kimura Naru, Tanaka Kaito, Kawamura Yusuke, Kuroda Kisho (goalkeeper), Watanabe Keita, Shinohara Ryosuke, Yamada Hyota

Team staff: Head coach – Anai Yoshihiro | Manager – Fujimoto Ippei

India (starters)

Abhishek, Manpreet Singh, Hardik Singh, Mandeep Singh, Krishan Bahadur Pathak (goalkeeper), Harmanpreet Singh (c), Sumit, Amit Rohidas, Sukhjeet Singh, Sanjay, Rajinder Singh

Substitutes: Dilpreet Singh, Jarmanpreet Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Jugraj Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Suraj Karkera (goalkeeper), Shilanand Lakra

Team staff: Head coach – Craig Fulton | Manager – Shivendra Singh
15:07 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: India vs Japan to start at 15:10
The much-anticipated clash between India and Japan is set to begin at 15:10, with the hosts looking to elevate their game further after being tested by China, while Japan enter the contest high on confidence following their 7-0 win over Kazakhstan.
15:00 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: End of China vs Kazakhstan, 14 goals in the match
On the back of a narrow win against India the other day, China stamp their authority this time in the Asia Cup as they thrash Kazakhstan 13-1, showcasing ruthless attacking play and complete dominance on the field. Their forwards convert chances with ease, the defence allows little room for Kazakhstan to respond, and the result underlines China’s growing confidence ahead of the tougher clashes to come.
14:52 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: In case you missed it...
Pakistan's junior hockey team will participate in the FIH Junior Men's Hockey World Cup 2025 in Tamil Nadu. This follows Pakistan's withdrawal from the Asia Cup due to security concerns. The World Cup will be held in Chennai and Madurai. India and Pakistan are in Pool B. New policies allow Indian participation in events with Pakistani athletes.
14:50 (IST) Aug 31
India's hockey team faced a tough challenge from China in their Asia Cup opener, despite being the top-ranked team. Coach Craig Fulton acknowledged the need to address defensive errors, especially conceding penalty corners. Meanwhile, Malaysia impressed with a dominant 4-1 victory over defending champions South Korea, fueled by Akhimullah Anuar's hat-trick. Bangladesh also secured a win, defeating Chinese Taipei 8-3.
14:46 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: China currently enjoying a score of 10-1 against Kazakhstan
Ahead of India’s match, China are firmly in control against Kazakhstan, leading 10-1 in the final quarter. The Chinese side is displaying sharp attacking play and relentless pressure, hardly giving Kazakhstan a chance to recover. With their defence holding strong and their forwards converting opportunities with ease, China look set to wrap up a commanding victory as the clock runs down.
14:30 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Squads
India: Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Krishan Pathak, Suraj Karkera, Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad.

Japan: Raiki Fujishima, Yuto Higuchi, Kosei Kawabe, Yamato Kawahara, Yusuke Kawamura, Naru Kimura, Kisho Kuroda, Kazumasa Matsumoto, Ken Nagayoshi, Yosei Oba, Shogo Sasaki, Ryosuke Shinohara, Kaito Tanaka, Seren Tanaka, Keita Watanabe, Hyota Yamada, Shota Yamada, Koji Yamasaki, Manabu Yamashita, Takashi Yoshikawa.
14:29 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Bangladesh win 8-3
Bangladesh defeated Chinese Taipei 8-3 in the other match of the day, are second and third respectively with three points each.
14:27 (IST) Aug 31
India vs Japan Hockey Match Live: Malaysia vs South Korea
Malaysia continued their good show to make it two wins in two matches as they beat defending champions South Korea 4-1 at the Asia Cup at Rajgir Sports Complex.

Like their opener against Bangladesh, they conceded early — this time in the second minute — but they slowly got back into the match and equalised in the 29th minute through Akhimullah Anuar. After the change of ends, Malaysia scored two more within two minutes to take the game away from their opponents and one of which was again by Anuar.

Finally, in the 58th minute, Anuar scored his third of the match to complete his hat-trick and get them closer to the Super4s stage. Currently, they are top of the group with six points from two matches
14:25 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Where can viewers watch the live streaming of the match?
The viewers can watch the live streaming of the Asia Cup 2025 hockey match between India and Japan on the SonyLiv app and website.
14:24 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Which TV channel will telecast the match?
Fans can watch the India vs Japan game live on the Sony Sports Network.
14:22 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Where is the match be played?
The match between India and Japan will take place at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium, Rajgir, Bihar.
14:17 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: When will the match be played?
The India vs Japan clash in the Asia Cup 2025 will be held on Sunday, August 31, with the action starting at 3 PM IST.
14:08 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: In-form Japan
Japan are coming into the game after a 7-0 win against Kazakhstan but in the last five games against India, they have lost four times. Only once during the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy in Chennai, they earned a 1-1 draw and will be more than happy if they can achieve the same result on Sunday.
14:07 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: A disappointed Rohidas
Even Amit Rohidas, one of the best rushers in the world, was disappointed with the team’s efforts and said, “We failed to take our chances. Also, we will have to be ready at the back because the one or two balls that they got, we made mistakes there and we will have to rectify them in the upcoming match.”
14:06 (IST) Aug 31
India vs Japan Hockey Match Live: What coach Craig Fulton said?
Craig Fulton said: "We are going to be their biggest game. So that’s how it’s always going to be. We are supposedly the highest-ranked team and we’re the favourites. So, every team is going to lift themselves to play us. We have to manage that challenge,
14:05 (IST) Aug 31
IND vs JPN Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Missed chances
It was quite uncanny to see India concede three PCs considering the hosts have always done well in defending them. And that is one of the major areas that the team will have to improve upon as they face off against Japan in their second group game of the tournament here on Sunday.
14:04 (IST) Aug 31
Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: Nervy start for India
India, despite being ranked No.1 in Asia, are looking shaky early on against China. Misplaced passes and defensive errors allow China a couple of half chances inside the opening minutes. The hosts need to settle quickly under the Rajgir heat on Friday.
14:03 (IST) Aug 31
India vs Japan Hockey Match Live: Welcome
Hello and welcome to our live coverage of the ongoing 2025 Asia Cup. Today Harmanpreet Singh-led India will take on Japan at Rajgir Sports Complex in Rajgir, Bihar.

The Indian men’s hockey team might be the seventh-ranked team in the world and No.1 in Asia, but they were given quite a scare by the Chinese side in their Asia Cup opener.

Against Japan, Asia’s No. 1 team will look to put the opening slipup behind against Japan.
India vs Japan, Hockey Asia Cup 2025 Live: India, ranked No.7 in the world and Asia’s top team, were pushed to the brink in their Asia Cup opener by a spirited Chinese side at Rajgir.

Despite Harmanpreet Singh’s hat-trick, defensive lapses cost India dearly as they conceded three penalty corners. Coach Craig Fulton admitted India will be every team’s biggest target, demanding sharper defence ahead of the clash with Japan.

While Hardik Singh and Mandeep combined well, goalkeepers and defenders will need to step up. With extreme heat adding to the challenge, India face Japan, who come in after a 7-0 win over Kazakhstan, eyeing another strong result.

Squads

India: Sumit, Jarmanpreet Singh, Sanjay, Harmanpreet Singh, Amit Rohidas, Jugraj Singh, Krishan Pathak, Suraj Karkera, Mandeep Singh, Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Sukhjeet Singh, Dilpreet Singh, Rajinder Singh, Raj Kumar Pal, Hardik Singh, Manpreet Singh, Vivek Sagar Prasad.

Japan: Raiki Fujishima, Yuto Higuchi, Kosei Kawabe, Yamato Kawahara, Yusuke Kawamura, Naru Kimura, Kisho Kuroda, Kazumasa Matsumoto, Ken Nagayoshi, Yosei Oba, Shogo Sasaki, Ryosuke Shinohara, Kaito Tanaka, Seren Tanaka, Keita Watanabe, Hyota Yamada, Shota Yamada, Koji Yamasaki, Manabu Yamashita, Takashi Yoshikawa.