India continued their impressive run in the Asian Champions Trophy 2026, defeating Japan 4-1 at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar on Friday.

The victory secured the defending champions’ place in the semifinals with three wins from three matches. Abhishek starred on his 150th international appearance, scoring twice in the 11th and 51st minutes and earning Player of the Match honours.

Captain Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner in the 47th minute to put India ahead, while Vishnu Kant Singh sealed the victory with a superb solo goal in the 56th minute. Japan’s Shota Yamada had equalised in the 15th minute through a penalty stroke after Abhishek’s opener. India dominated the final quarter, scoring three goals to pull away from their opponents.

Harmanpreet has now scored five goals in the tournament, all from penalty corners. India lead the standings with nine points and a +19 goal difference.

Malaysia are second, also with nine points, while Japan remain third on six points.