India top Group A at 2026 Asian Games kabaddi with 37-21 win over Chinese Taipei
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
India maintained their unbeaten run in the men's kabaddi competition at the 2026 Asian Games, defeating Chinese Taipei 37-21 in their final Group A fixture at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium in Aichi on Thursday, 24 September. The dominant display confirmed India's position at the summit of Group A as they head into the semi-finals.
How India Controlled the Match
India were in command from the outset, with Aslam Inamdar and Rahul Sethpal combining effectively to put the Chinese Taipei raiders under sustained pressure. Sethpal's ankle holds proved particularly decisive, allowing India to gain early control and force the first All-Out of the contest.
Chinese Taipei hit back through thigh holds and Super Tackles to stay in contention, but India's twin-pronged threat — both in raiding and defence — kept the scoreboard ticking. A second All-Out gave India a commanding 23-11 lead at the half-time break.
Second Half and Chinese Taipei's Fightback Attempt
After the interval, Chinese Taipei leaned on bonus points to chip away at the deficit, while India turned to Devank Dalal and Ayan Lohchab to sustain their attacking momentum. A crucial ankle hold by Chung-mao Chang offered Chinese Taipei a brief window, but India's raiders responded with renewed intensity and secured a third All-Out to effectively seal the contest.
India's disciplined defence in the closing stages restricted Chinese Taipei's scoring opportunities, while their raiders continued to build on the total. The final scoreline of 37-21 reflected India's comprehensive superiority throughout.
Key Statistics from the Game
India scored three bonus points and accumulated six All-Out points, underscoring their dominance across both phases of play. Chinese Taipei, by contrast, managed nine bonus points and two Super Tackles — insufficient to bridge the gap against a well-drilled Indian unit.
Road to the Semi-Finals
India had already secured their semi-final berth — and a guaranteed medal — after defeating Bangladesh on Wednesday, 23 September. Thursday's win against Chinese Taipei was therefore a statement of intent, confirming the team's readiness heading into the knockouts.
India will now face their semi-final challenge on 25 September as they look to advance to the gold-medal match and continue what has been a flawless group-stage campaign.