India's men's hockey team reaffirmed its dominance in Asian hockey by securing a sensational victory in the Asian Games final against Japan on Friday. After clinching bronze at the Tokyo Olympics, India elevated its performance further, triumphing over the 2018 champions with a commanding 5-1 win in the men's hockey final. The gold medal victory also guarantees India a spot at the upcoming Paris Olympics, bypassing the lengthier qualification process. Only the gold medalists in both men's and women's hockey at the Asian Games secure direct berths to the Olympic Games, and India secured this coveted spot with a resounding performance. This triumph marked India's fourth gold medal in men's hockey at the Asian Games, adding to their previous victories in 1966, 1998, and 2014. In the Jakarta Asian Games four years ago, India had secured a bronze. India's achievement in Asian Games hockey has now drawn them level with South Korea, both boasting four gold medals in the competition. However, Pakistan retains its status as the most successful men's team in Asian Games history with an impressive tally of nine gold medals. India entered the final against Japan, the defending champions, with a high level of confidence, having defeated them in the group stage. Their journey to the final included a hard-fought 5-3 victory over Korea in the semi-finals, showcasing their composure and determination.
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