India eyes Korea test after dominant Asian Games hockey start

India's Olympic-champion hockey squad opened its Asian Games campaign with commanding performances, crushing Indonesia and Sri Lanka by large margins to announce its title credentials early.

The Indian team will now confront South Korea on Thursday in what shapes up as the tournament's most significant group-stage encounter. A victory would substantially strengthen India's path to the semifinals while maintaining momentum toward qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The defending Asian Games champions have demonstrated the attacking prowess and cohesion needed for a deep run in the continental competition. However, South Korea's reputation as a disciplined, technically proficient opponent presents a markedly different proposition from the opening assignments.

Victory in Hangzhou would represent a statement of intent ahead of the knockout stages and provide tangible progress toward India's broader Olympic qualification objectives. The match carries significance beyond the immediate tournament, as the path to LA 2028 remains a central focus for India's hockey federation and coaching staff.