The Hero Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026 got underway in spectacular fashion on 27 October in Jalandhar, India, with three exciting encounters producing an impressive 27 goals. Hosts India delivered a commanding performance against Bangladesh, while Malaysia and Japan secured hard-fought victories over China and Korea, respectively.
The opening day set the stage for an exciting competition featuring six of Asia’s leading men’s national hockey teams, competing in Jalandhar and Mohali from 27 October to 5 November 2026.
Malaysia Edge China in Nine-Goal Thriller (5–4)
The tournament began with a sensational encounter as Malaysia edged China 5–4 in a thrilling nine-goal contest.
Both teams demonstrated impressive attacking intent, with Malaysia’s Abu Kamal Azrai scoring twice from open play, while China’s Chen Benhai converted two penalty corners. Malaysia held their nerve to secure three valuable points and make a winning start to their campaign.
Japan Triumph Over Korea in Close Contest (3–2)
Japan opened their campaign with a hard-fought 3–2 victory over Korea in an entertaining encounter.
Both sides demonstrated their competitive spirit throughout the match, but Japan capitalised on their opportunities to emerge victorious. Kentaro Fukuda featured among Japan’s goalscorers, while Korea’s Sangjun Han found the net through a penalty corner.
India Produce 13-Goal Masterclass Against Bangladesh (13–0)
Hosts India delivered the standout performance of the opening day, registering a commanding 13–0 victory over Bangladesh.
India’s attacking brilliance was on full display as they dominated the encounter with clinical finishing and sustained pressure.
Mandeep Singh led the charge with a superb hat-trick, while Dilpreet Singh, Hardik Singh and Harmanpreet Singh contributed two goals each.
The emphatic victory propelled India to the top of the standings on goal difference, underlining their ambitions for the continental title.
Day 1 Highlights
- 3 matches played
- 27 goals scored
- India, Malaysia and Japan secure opening-day victories
- Mandeep Singh leads the goalscoring charts with 3 goals
- India top the standings with a +13 goal difference
Upcoming Matches – 29 October 2026
- Malaysia vs Korea
- Bangladesh vs Japan
- India vs China
With three more exciting encounters lined up, the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026 promises another action-packed day as Asia’s leading hockey nations continue their pursuit of continental glory.
Follow the Asian Hockey Federation for tournament updates, match highlights, results and exclusive coverage throughout the competition.
Watch match highlights on the Official Asian Hockey Federation YouTube Channel.
