2026: The Indian U-18 Men's Hockey Team were crowned champions of the Men's U-18 Asia Cup 2026 after defeating hosts Japan 4-1 in the final in Kakamigahara, Japan, on Friday.
Ashish Tani Purti (2', 28', 34') starred with a hat-trick, while captain Ketan Kushwaha (30') also found the back of the net as India produced a commanding display against the hosts to lift the title.
Numada Gaku (52') scored Japan's lone goal of the contest.
To recognise the teams' achievements, announced a cash award of INR 3 lakh for each player of the gold medal-winning Indian U-18 Men's Hockey Team and INR 1.5 lakh for each member of the support staff.
Also announced a cash award of INR 1 lakh for each player of the Indian U-18 Women's Hockey Team, who secured the bronze medal earlier in the day, along with INR 50,000 for each member of the support staff.
Ashish Tani Purti was awarded Player of the Match for his stellar performance in the final and was also recognised as the tournament's Top Scorer with an impressive 13 goals.
India further dominated the individual honours with goalkeeper Ayush Rajak being named the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament.
In the women's competition, India's Nausheen Naz was recognised as the Top Scorer with 12 goals, capping off a memorable campaign for India at the Men's and Women's U-18 Asia Cup 2026.
In the first quarter, India wasted no time in making their presence felt, winning a penalty corner inside the opening 90 seconds.
Ashish Tani Purti (2') made no mistake with the finish, giving India an early lead.
Japan grew into the quarter, testing India with four circle penetrations, but the Indian defence stood firm throughout as the first quarter ended with India leading 1-0.
The second quarter saw India extend their advantage despite sustained pressure from the hosts.
