India beat Malaysia 5-1 to defend Asian Games men''s hockey gold, qualify for LA Olympics

Kakamigahara, Oct 3 (PTI) Reigning Olympic bronze medallist India hammered Malaysia 5-1 to defend their men's hockey gold in the Asian Games here on Saturday, and the triumph also secured them a direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

While writing a new chapter in the history of Indian hockey, the eight-time Olympic champions also clinched their fifth Asian Games gold, and the second in a row for the first time.

The Indians made an attacking start as the play was mostly in the Malaysian half in the first quarter.

India converted three penalty corners through skipper Harmanpreet Singh (11th, 57th minutes) and Jugraj Singh (23rd), while vice-captain Hardik Singh scored from a penalty stroke in the 42nd minute and Shilanand Lakra completed the formalities with a field goal in the 54th minute.

Malaysia's lone goal was scored by Shello Silverius from a field effort in the 14th minute.

Malaysia secured the silver, while Pakistan won the bronze by defeating South Korea 5-3 earlier in the day.

It was double glory for Indian hockey from the Asian Games as the women's team also won the gold after 44 years, stunning reigning Olympic silver medallist and defending champions China 1-0 on Friday.