Asian Games 2026: India Women Beat Iran in Thrilling Kabaddi Final to Win Gold

Aichi-Nagoya: The Indian women's Kabaddi team once again proved its dominance in the Asian Games 2026. In the final played on Saturday, India won the gold medal by defeating Iran 37-34. The match played at the Tokai Citizen Gymnasium dragged on till the last minute and Iran put pressure on India on several occasions. Despite this, the Indian players did not lose patience and won the title by scoring points at important moments. With this victory, India also retained the previous Asian Games title in Women's Kabaddi. 

How did India take the lead in the first half?

There was a tough competition between the two teams in the beginning of the match. The score remained close to parity for some time, but India gradually started strengthening its hold. Due to better coordination in both raiding and defence, the Indian team won the first half 22-16 in its favor. Iran continued to benefit from bonus points, but the Indian defence did not give them a chance to take a big lead. India had a lead of six points till the break.

How did Iran turn the match in the second half?

Iran made a rapid comeback in the second half. Iranian players continuously scored points while reducing the gap created by the Indian team. At one point the match became very close and India's lead was reduced to just one point. Iran scored more points than India in the second half, but India's lead in the first half proved to be decisive. 

When did Sanju Devi and Pushpa Rana take command?

In this period of pressure, the Indian team got the necessary points from Sanju Devi's raid. After this, captain Pushpa Rana also played an important role. India took advantage of these opportunities to increase the gap again. In the last few minutes, Indian players took less risks and played every raid and tackle thoughtfully. This strategy worked for the team in the end.

How did India save its lead despite Iran's withdrawal?

Iran did not give up and scored points continuously in the last part of the match. He kept the score close through super tackles and raiding. But India had the advantage of early lead. Till the final whistle, the Indian team was leading 37-34 and with this the gold medal was confirmed.

Which gold is this for India in women's kabaddi?

This is India's fourth Asian Games gold in women's kabaddi. Earlier, the Indian team had won gold medals in 2010, 2014 and 2022. In 2018, Iran won the title by defeating India. Once again in 2026, both the teams were face to face in the final and this time the Indian team took the title by avenging the previous defeat. 

What was added to India's medal account?

The women's Kabaddi gold is India's third gold at the Asian Games 2026. The Indian contingent has won a total of 27 medals so far, which include three gold, 11 silver and 13 bronze. After the women's team, now the eye is on the Indian men's Kabaddi team, which will also face Iran in the final.