# India thump Japan 49-24 in Asian Games kabaddi opener 2026-09-21T07:46:45+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 2 independent outlets India began their men's kabaddi title defence at the 2026 Asian Games with a 49, 24 win over hosts Japan in Aichi-Nagoya on Monday. Ashu Malik led the raiders with a three-point Super Raid early, while India's defence forced four All-Outs in the Group A opener at the Tokai Citizens Gymnasium. India led 31-9 at halftime after controlling the first half. Japan fought back in the second half, winning it 18-15, but India's defence held. India have won eight of the last nine Asian Games kabaddi golds. Their next Group A match will determine progress in the tournament. ## Indian Opinion Analysis Both sources report straight facts with no discernible slant. NDTV's preview is a basic 'when and where' guide, Telangana Today's match report is a rigorous play-by-play with full statistics. The uniform coverage reflects kabaddi's status as a non-political sport where match facts speak for themselves. The standout takeaway is India's 49, 24 start, but the 18-15 second half suggests Japan's tactical adjustment will be Japan's test against later opponents. India's next Group A match will show if that half was a blip or a trend. ## Coverage - sports.ndtv.com (neutral report) Previews match logistics without any political or critical framing - telanganatoday.com (neutral report) Straight match report with full statistics, no editorialising Tags: Asian Games 2026, India men's kabaddi, Japan, Tokai Citizens Gymnasium Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/india-mens-kabaddi-start-asian-games-2026-defence-against-japan/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/india-mens-kabaddi-start-asian-games-2026-defence-against-japan/#story-in-brief