India secured their place in the men’s kabaddi semi-finals at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya after registering a 48-25 victory over Bangladesh at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium.
The result marked India’s kabaddi team 2026 Asian Games third consecutive win in Group A – following earlier victories over hosts Japan and the Republic of Korea, ensuring their progression to the knockout stage with one group match still remaining.
India Take Complete Control Before Half-Time
India dictated the contest from the opening exchanges, with both the raiding and defensive units consistently putting Bangladesh under pressure. During the first half, India collected 18 out points and seven bonus points while also inflicting two All-Outs, which contributed another four points to their rapidly growing advantage.
Bangladesh struggled to find any sustained rhythm against India’s organised defence. They managed only five out points and three bonus points during the opening period, while a Super Tackle provided one additional point.
By half-time, India had established a commanding 29-9 lead and were firmly in control of the match.
Bangladesh Improve After the Break
India made a change at the start of the second half, introducing Arjun Deshwal in place of Devank Dalal as they looked to maintain their attacking pressure.
Bangladesh responded with a much stronger second-half performance. They registered eight out points and eight bonus points to collect 16 points after the interval.
However, India continued to score regularly themselves, adding another 19 points during the second half.
The defending champions also completed a third All-Out, preventing Bangladesh’s improved attacking effort from developing into a serious comeback.
India eventually closed out the contest with a comfortable 48-25 victory.
India Secure Third Straight Group Win
The result extended India’s perfect record in Group A to three wins from three matches. They had opened their campaign with a 49-24 victory over Japan before defeating the Republic of Korea 63-31. The latest success against Bangladesh officially confirmed their semi-final berth.
India will now face Chinese Taipei in their final group-stage fixture before turning their attention to the knockout rounds.
Having won eight of the nine men’s kabaddi gold medals awarded since the sport entered the Asian Games programme, India remain firmly in pursuit of a ninth continental title.
