Bhubaneswar: Members of India’s Men’s and Women’s U-18 Hockey teams received a grand welcome at Delhi airport upon their return from Japan following their impressive performances at the U-18 Asia Cup 2026.
Players, coaches, officials, and supporters gathered to celebrate the teams’ achievements, with the young athletes being greeted with flowers, applause, and enthusiastic cheers after bringing laurels to the country on the continental stage.
India emerged champions in the Men’s U-18 Asia Cup after a dominant 4-1 victory over hosts Japan in the final played at Kakamigahara on Saturday. The Indian side showcased exceptional skill and teamwork throughout the tournament, culminating in a convincing win to secure the prestigious title.
The Women’s U-18 team also finished the tournament on a high note, clinching the bronze medal with a commanding 3-0 victory over South Korea in the third-place playoff. The performance highlighted the growing strength of India’s women’s hockey development program and the promise of its emerging talent.
Officials from the hockey fraternity praised both teams for their dedication, discipline, and competitive spirit. The success is being viewed as a positive sign for the future of Indian hockey, with several players expected to progress through the national development pathway and potentially represent the country at higher levels in the coming years.
The twin achievements have further strengthened India’s reputation as a rising force in age-group hockey across Asia. Sports administrators and former players expressed confidence that the success of these young teams will inspire aspiring hockey players across the country and contribute to the continued growth of the sport.
The victorious contingent is expected to participate in felicitation ceremonies and interactions with hockey officials in the coming days as the nation celebrates another memorable chapter in Indian hockey.
-OdishaAge
