- The summit clash will take place at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium.
- India have been the standout team in the tournament.
- India are expected to retain most of their core players for the final.
The Indian men's hockey team will look to defend its title when it takes on Japan in the final of the Men's Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026 on Thursday, November 5. Harmanpreet Singh and Co. are one victory away from securing a record-extending sixth title in the continental competition.
The summit clash will take place at the Olympian Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali, with the match scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM IST.
India head into the final as favourites after producing an impressive campaign under head coach Craig Fulton. The hosts remained unbeaten in the league stage, registering five consecutive victories before thrashing South Korea 8-1 in Wednesday's semi-final.
Japan, meanwhile, secured their place in the final after overcoming Malaysia in a penalty shootout following a 5-5 draw in regulation time. They will now face their toughest challenge against the defending champions.
India vs Japan Final: Preview
India have been the standout team in the tournament, combining attacking quality with defensive solidity. They scored 34 goals in their five league-stage matches while conceding only five.
One last time in the Indian jersey. One last time representing the nation on home soil. 🥹 As Nilakanta Sharma takes the field for the India vs Japan Final at the Hero Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026, we celebrate a journey defined by dedication, passion and countless moments of pride. Let's make his final outing in the Indian jersey one to remember! 🇮🇳❤️ #HockeyIsBack #HACT2026 #SatSriAkalAsia #IndiaKaGame
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) November 5, 2026
Their 8-1 semi-final victory against South Korea further underlined their attacking strength. Dilpreet Singh and Shilanand Lakra scored braces, while Harmanpreet Singh, Sukhjeet Singh, Angad Bir Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad also got on the scoresheet.
However, Japan will not be an unfamiliar challenge for the Indian team. The two sides met during the league stage, with India securing a 4-1 victory. Despite the result, Japan troubled the hosts for significant periods through their aggressive pressing and organised defensive structure.
Japan captain Raiki Fujishima has made it clear that his team intends to play an attacking game in the final. India will therefore need to maintain possession, avoid unnecessary turnovers and convert their penalty-corner opportunities.
Head coach Craig Fulton will also be monitoring the fitness of forward Abhishek, who twisted his ankle during the match against Malaysia. He was included in the squad for the semi-final but did not feature against South Korea.
India vs Japan: Head-to-Head Record
India have historically dominated Japan in men's hockey. According to the available head-to-head record, India have won 27 of their 32 meetings since 2013, while Japan have registered three victories and two matches have ended in draws.
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Their most recent meeting came in the league stage of this tournament, where India defeated Japan 4-1. However, Japan's aggressive pressing and ability to force turnovers could make the final a much closer contest.
Where To Watch India vs Japan Men's Asian Champions Trophy 2026 Final Live?
Indian hockey fans can watch the summit clash between India and Japan through television and digital platforms.
Live TV Telecast: Star Sports 2
Live Streaming: JioHotstar app and website
Match Start Time: 7:00 PM IST
JioStar is the official broadcast partner of the tournament, with Hockey India confirming live coverage on Star Sports 2 and JioHotstar throughout the competition.
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India vs Japan: Predicted Playing XI
India are expected to retain most of their core players for the final, although Abhishek's fitness remains a concern.
India Predicted XI:
Suraj Karkera (GK), Jarmanpreet Singh, Harmanpreet Singh (C), Amit Rohidas, Sanjay, Hardik Singh, Nilakanta Sharma, Vivek Sagar Prasad, Dilpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh and Sukhjeet Singh.
Japan Predicted XI:
Japan are expected to rely on their aggressive pressing structure and experienced core, led by captain Raiki Fujishima. Their confirmed starting XI will be announced closer to the match.