India Flex Their ‘Kabaddi’ Muscle To Rout Japan 49-24 in Asian Games Opening Clash

Nagoya, September 21: Indian men's kabaddi team kept their dominant run over Japan to win the opening match of Group A, 49-24, against the hosts at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium. The win takes India to an 8-0 dominant head-to-head win against Japan.

Asian Games debutant Ayan Lohchab had a dream start, making an immediate impact in the opening minutes of the first quarter. Ayan formed a dangerous and successful tag team with Ashu Malik as the duo wreaked havoc for India, taking a 31-9 lead at half-time.

Meanwhile, Aslam Inamdar opened the second half with a successful raid as India maintained their grip on the match. Japan showed greater resistance after the interval and managed to narrow the gap slightly, but their 15-point second-half effort was not enough to overcome India's commanding lead. India added 18 points in the final half to comfortably secure the victory.

The Indian side accumulated 36 points through successful outs, along with eight points from all-outs and two from super tackles. Japan, meanwhile, relied on nine bonus points during the contest.

Asian Games: How Did India Outplay Japan In Opening Match?

India produced a commanding tactical performance to defeat Japan 49-24 in their opening match of the 2026 Asian Games kabaddi competition. The victory showcased a strong combination of attacking pace, defensive discipline and experience.

India adopted an aggressive multi-raider approach, rotating Ayan Lohchab, Devank Dalal and Ashu Malik to keep Japan's defence under constant pressure. The strategy paid off early, with India racing to a commanding 31-9 lead at half-time.

The Indian defence was equally effective, with captain Sunil Kumar leading a well-organised unit. Japan's raiders struggled to find space as India repeatedly used ankle holds, chain tackles and coordinated defensive moves to halt their attacks.

Lohchab and Devank impressed on their Asian Games debuts, displaying confidence and agility while exploiting gaps in Japan's defensive structure. Ashu Malik added experience and composure to the raiding department.

India's ability to capitalise when Japan had fewer players on the mat proved decisive. The defending side inflicted four all-outs, maintaining a relentless scoring rate and extending their advantage.

Japan showed greater resilience after the break, scoring 15 points in the second half, but India remained firmly in control. Japan's defensive impatience and limited raiding depth also contributed to their defeat.

India will next face the Republic of Korea in Group A on Tuesday.