Defending champions recover from early setback to register a convincing Group A victory
Aichi-Nagoya (Japan), (SDNA) September 23, 2026: India strengthened their campaign to retain the women’s kabaddi title at the Asian Games with a commanding 37-23 victory over Iran in their Group A encounter on Wednesday.
The match, played at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium, began with Iran putting India under pressure. The Iranian side made an aggressive start and opened up an 8-4 lead, forcing the Indian defence to work hard in the early phase of the contest.
India gradually regained control through an effective attacking display. Pooja played a key role in the comeback, producing a successful super raid that reduced Iran’s advantage before another well-executed raid brought the scores level.
The momentum then shifted decisively towards India as the defending champions improved their defensive organisation and increased the pressure on Iran’s raiders.
India maintained their advantage through the remainder of the contest and eventually closed the match with a 14-point winning margin.
The victory provides India with an important boost in their Group A campaign as they continue their pursuit of another Asian Games women’s kabaddi title.
The Indian team will now look to carry the momentum from the Iran victory into their next group-stage assignment, with a place in the knockout phase within sight.