Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
India's men's kabaddi team produced a stunning second-half comeback to defeat Iran 40-34 in the final and retain its Asian Games gold medal, successfully defending the title won at the previous edition of the Games.
The victory marked India's second consecutive Asian Games gold in men's kabaddi and completed a historic sweep for the country in the sport after the women's team also defeated Iran to clinch the gold medal earlier in the day.
The final began as a closely contested encounter, with both teams matching each other point for point in the opening half. Iran started aggressively and put India under pressure, but the Indian side responded with crucial defensive efforts, including a super tackle that briefly handed them the advantage.
However, Iran fought back strongly and managed to all out India, earning four valuable points to move ahead 14-13. Despite India's attempts to regain control, Iran maintained its momentum and entered halftime with a narrow 18-17 lead.
India returned with renewed intensity after the break and quickly turned the contest in its favor. The defending champions adopted an aggressive approach, successfully alling out Iran to seize the lead and shift the momentum.
With 10 minutes remaining, India had built a five-point cushion, leaving the Iranian camp under increasing pressure. The Indian players continued to dominate both in attack and defense, steadily extending their advantage.
A decisive moment came in the closing stages when Aslam delivered a brilliant raid. Surrounded by Iranian defenders, he cleverly crossed the walk line to secure crucial points and help India stretch its lead to nine points.
India responded effectively to every Iranian attack in the final minutes and maintained control until the final whistle. The triumph underlined India's continued dominance in kabaddi, overcoming a difficult first half to secure yet another Asian Games gold medal.
