New Delhi. In a gripping finale, India’s women’s kabaddi team kept their Asian Games title intact by edging Iran 37‑34. The Iranians pressed hard in the second half, but the Indian side held firm in the dying minutes to clinch the gold.
The triumph marks the second back‑to‑back women’s kabaddi gold for India at the Asian Games, following the victory at the Hangzhou edition. It also represents the third all‑final clash between the two nations, with India now winning two of those meetings.
India Set the Pace Early
The contest started evenly, with both squads exchanging points in the opening spell. Gradually, India’s raiders and defenders found rhythm, applying sustained pressure that forced Iran into errors.
A defensive slip from Iran gave India an all‑out, pushing the score to 13‑10. The Indian side kept extending the lead as the first half unfolded, while Iran struggled to find easy scoring chances. By halftime, India enjoyed a 22‑16 advantage.
Iran’s Second‑Half Resurgence
After the break, Iran surged back, chopping down the deficit with a series of successful raids. Their renewed intensity placed India on the back foot, even resulting in an all‑out against the hosts.
As the gap narrowed, tension rose. Nevertheless, India answered with a disciplined defensive stand, snatching vital points at crucial junctures to regain momentum.
Closing Minutes: Nerve and Resolve
The final stretch turned into a point‑for‑point battle. India continued its attacking thrust while its defense stayed composed under pressure.
When the stakes were highest, the Indian players delivered their best performance, denying Iran a late comeback and sealing the match 37‑34 to lift the gold medal.
Group‑Stage Preview
Earlier in the tournament, India had already faced Iran in the group phase, dispatching them convincingly with a 37‑23 scoreline. The final victory capped an unbeaten run and ensured the women’s kabaddi crown stayed in Indian hands.
