The Indian men’s hockey team made a spectacular start to their title defence at the Hero Men’s Asian Champions Trophy Punjab 2026, defeating Bangladesh 13–0 at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar on October 27.
Mandeep Singh led India’s attacking display with a brilliant hat-trick, scoring in the 3rd, 10th and 54th minutes. Captain Harmanpreet Singh, Dilpreet Singh and Hardik Singh contributed two goals each, while Shilanand Lakra, Abhishek, Nilakanta Sharma and Jugraj Singh also found the net.
India dominated the match from the opening minutes, taking a 6–0 lead by half-time and continuing their relentless attack in the second half. The emphatic victory gave the defending champions three points and a goal difference of +13, placing them at the top of the standings after the opening day.
The tournament features six teams competing for the continental title. India’s next match is against China on October 29 in Jalandhar, as the hosts look to maintain their winning momentum.
The commanding result sends a strong message to their rivals as India pursue another Asian Champions Trophy crown.
Published: Thursday, 29 October 2026 | 1:55 PM IST