Sri Lanka advance to Asian Games hockey semis qualifier stage

Sri Lanka secured a place in the semi-finals of the Asian Games 2026 men’s hockey qualifier tournament after finishing at the top of Group B with six points. Uzbekistan followed with four points to claim the second qualifying spot from the group.

The competition, which features nine Asian teams, is currently underway in Bangkok, with Group A matches still ongoing. The teams advancing from that group to the semi-finals are yet to be confirmed.

Sri Lanka played three matches in Group B, recording two wins and one defeat to emerge as group leaders. Despite losing their final group fixture, their earlier victories ensured progression to the knockout stage.

In their last group encounter played yesterday, Sri Lanka went down 3–1 to Chinese Taipei. However, wins against Uzbekistan and Bangladesh had already secured their place in the semi-finals.

Sri Lanka made a promising start against Chinese Taipei, taking an early 1–0 lead in the opening period. The match remained evenly contested, with both sides level at 1–1 by halftime.

Chinese Taipei gained momentum in the second half, moving ahead 2–1 by the end of the third period before sealing a 3–1 victory at full time.

The result was significant for Chinese Taipei, marking their first group-stage win of the tournament.

Sri Lanka’s only goal in the match came from K. Damian, who found the net in the 13th minute.