Euronations champions

The Tokyo Olympic Games:  Playing a brand of hockey that has led to its recent metamorphosis into a medal contender in the world, the Indian men's hockey team defeated Japan 5-1 to re-established its superiority in the continent by winning the gold medal in the Asian Games for the fourth time in 19 editions.

The bonus they gained for their consistent performance in the hockey competition in Hangzhou was a berth in next year's Paris Olympics, becoming the fourth team after hosts France, EuroNations Champions the Netherlands and Australia to seal their berths.

On Friday, India defeated Japan 5-1 in the final, riding on a brace by skipper Harmanpreet Singh (32nd, 59th minutes), while Manpreet Singh (25th min), Amit Rohidas (36th min) and Abhishek (48th min) struck a goal each. Japan's lone consolation was scored by Seren Tanaka off an indirect penalty corner in the 51st minute.