India seek to extend unbeaten run against South Korea in Asian Champions Trophy
India face South Korea at the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar on November 2, 2026 in the Asian Champions Trophy 2026 as they aim to preserve an unbeaten league-stage record.
The hosts have won all four of their matches, collecting 12 points and carrying a goal difference of +21 into their final group fixture; India, Malaysia, Japan and South Korea have secured places in the semi-finals, while China and Bangladesh have been eliminated. Malaysia sit second with nine points, Japan are third with seven and South Korea fourth with six.
India’s defence has contributed significantly to their run, with goalkeeper Krishan Bahadur Pathak producing important saves and defenders Amit Rohidas and Rajinder stepping up at crucial moments. Against Malaysia the defence came under pressure in the second quarter but managed to prevent the visitors from taking control, and Pathak and Rohidas were singled out for their role in dealing with penalty-corner situations.
Set pieces have been decisive for India throughout the tournament, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh’s drag-flicking. Harmanpreet has scored eight goals to top the tournament charts and produced a hat-trick in the 4-2 win over Malaysia by converting two penalty corners and a penalty stroke.
India’s forwards have contributed to the scoring rate beyond set plays; Sukhjeet Singh scored in the 4-2 victory over Malaysia and Hardik Singh has been noted for his ability to create opportunities and link play. The hosts have scored freely during the league stage, providing attacking rhythm as they prepare for the knockout phase.
The Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium has provided a vocal home crowd throughout the competition, and Harmanpreet acknowledged the supporters’ role, saying, “The energy from the crowd is infectious. Keep supporting us. Thank you, everyone.” The atmosphere has been highlighted in reports from Jalandhar following India’s recent results.
South Korea will pose a different challenge, looking to test India’s defensive organisation with quick attacks and circle entries; the Korean defence will need to avoid conceding unnecessary fouls around the circle if they are to contain India’s set-piece threat. The match offers both sides a final opportunity to sharpen combinations and build confidence ahead of the semi-finals.
With qualification secured for the last four, India still have league-stage positioning and momentum at stake: a victory over South Korea would give the hosts five wins from five matches and conclude their group campaign on a winning note.