Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; September 24: The Indian men’s kabaddi team booked its place in the semi-finals of the Asian Games 2026 after defeating Chinese Taipei 37-21 in its final Group A match on Thursday. The victory completed a perfect group-stage campaign for India, which won all four of its matches and secured at least a bronze medal in the men’s kabaddi competition.

India controlled the contest against Chinese Taipei and maintained its advantage as the match progressed. Chinese Taipei put up a determined fight and attempted to stay within touching distance of the Indian side, but India’s overall superiority helped it secure a comfortable 16-point victory.

The result also had an impact on the qualification race involving Japan. Despite Chinese Taipei’s strong challenge, Japan progressed to the semi-finals on the basis of the points difference. The outcome ensured that the hosts remained in contention for a place on the podium alongside India.

India had already established its credentials during the group stage with victories over hosts Japan, South Korea and Bangladesh before facing Chinese Taipei in its final Group A fixture. With four wins from four matches, the Indian team finished the group stage unbeaten and guaranteed itself a medal opportunity in the knockout phase.

The Indian side will now turn its attention to the semi-final, where it will face the runners-up from Group B. The match is scheduled to be played on Friday, September 25, 2026. A victory in the semi-final will take India into the gold-medal match.

The final is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026. If India manages to overcome its Group B opponent in the semi-final, the team will compete for the gold medal in the final.

The unbeaten group-stage record has given India considerable momentum heading into the knockout phase. However, the semi-final will bring a fresh challenge, with the team needing another strong performance to progress to the title clash.

India’s consistent performances throughout the group stage have kept the team firmly in medal contention. The 37-21 victory over Chinese Taipei not only confirmed its semi-final qualification but also marked the completion of a clean sweep of four wins in Group A.

With the medal race now entering its decisive stage, all eyes will be on India’s semi-final clash on Friday as the men’s kabaddi team looks to continue its campaign and secure a place in the gold-medal match.