Day 2 Review: Pakistan, Japan and Korea Shine as Goals Continue to Flow in Kakamigahara

Kakamigahara, Japan – 30 May 2026

Day 2 of the Men’s and Women’s U18 Asia Cup 2026 delivered another exciting round of matches, with six contests producing 38 goals and several standout individual performances.

Teams continued their quest for qualification to the knockout stages as Pakistan, Japan, Korea, India and Bangladesh all recorded important victories in front of enthusiastic supporters in Kakamigahara.

## Women’s U18 Asia Cup

India secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Malaysia in Pool A to begin their campaign on a winning note. Naz Nousheen was named Player of the Match after playing a key role in India’s success.

Later in the day, hosts Japan produced a dominant performance in Pool B, defeating Bangladesh 12-0. FUJII Nene earned Player of the Match honours following an outstanding display as Japan delighted the home crowd with an impressive attacking performance.

## Men’s U18 Asia Cup

Pakistan opened their Pool B campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over China. ASNAN Muhammad was named Player of the Match after helping guide his side to an important win and three valuable points.

Bangladesh then claimed a 4-2 victory over Malaysia in an entertaining Pool B encounter. ISLAM Munna received the Player of the Match award following a strong individual performance.

In Pool A, Korea continued their excellent form with a comprehensive 13-0 victory over Kazakhstan. Captain YUN JAEHYEOK led by example and was deservedly named Player of the Match.

The final match of the day saw hosts Japan overcome Chinese Taipei 4-1 in front of their home supporters. FUJIWARA Yuma was named Player of the Match after an influential display that helped Japan secure all three points.

## Day 2 Results

### Women’s U18 Asia Cup
– India 2-1 Malaysia
– Japan 12-0 Bangladesh

### Men’s U18 Asia Cup
– Pakistan 3-0 China
– Bangladesh 4-2 Malaysia
– Korea 13-0 Kazakhstan
– Japan 4-1 Chinese Taipei

## Players of the Match

### Women’s U18 Asia Cup
– Naz Nousheen (India)
– FUJII Nene (Japan)

### Men’s U18 Asia Cup
– ASNAN Muhammad (Pakistan)
– ISLAM Munna (Bangladesh)
– YUN JAEHYEOK (Korea)
– FUJIWARA Yuma (Japan)

With the group stage intensifying, teams will now turn their attention to the next round of fixtures as the race for semi-final places gathers momentum.

Fans can watch all matches live and catch up on highlights via the official Asian Hockey YouTube channel:
http://www.youtube.com/@official_asian_hockey