India secures 5-1 victory over Japan, clinches second straight win in Asian Champions Trophy 2024

Paris Olympics bronze medallist Indian hockey team defeated Japan 5-1 in a league match to register their second consecutive win in the men's Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament.

Sukhjeet scored in the second and 60th minutes while Abhishek (3rd), Sanjay (17th) and Uttam Singh (54th) were the other Indian goal-getters. Harmanpreet-led India entered the tournament as defending champions, they got five penalty corners against Japan.

Matsumoto Kazumasa pulled one back for Japan in the 41st minute.

Earlier, India clinched a dominating 3-0 win against hosts China in their opener clash of the marquee event where Sukhjeet Singh (14th minute), Uttam, Singh (27th) and Abhishek (32nd) were the goal-scorers for India.

Now the Men in Blue will face last edition's finalists Malaysia on Wednesday, as Tuesday is a rest day.

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After the round-robin league among the six teams, the top-four sides qualify for the semifinals on September 16. The final is scheduled for September 17.

Team India are currently on number one in the points table tally with two wins out of two outings. South Korea are on number two as both matches ended in a draw. India's arch-rivals Pakistan are currently on number three as both of their matches ended in a draw. 

Malaysia have just played one match while writing this copy and they are currently on number four. Runners-up Malaysia will face hosts China for their second match which will take place on September 9 at 3.30 PM IST. If Malaysia secures a victory against China then they will be on number two in the points table tally. If China defeats Malaysia then they will be alive for the semifinal race which will take place on September 16. 

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