BANGKOK, Thailand, Apr 9 (ePRESS) – Sri Lanka’s national men’s hockey team produced a clinical, data-driven performance under pressure to defeat Indonesia 3-2 and power their way into the final of the Men’s Asian Games Qualifier 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand, ending a long wait for a place in a major final.
Playing with structure and purpose from the first whistle, Sri Lanka dominated early phases through controlled possession and disciplined spacing. Their attacking patterns paid off in the sixth minute when Udayashan Fernando converted a sharp field move to give them a 1-0 lead, a scoreline they protected with tight defensive organisation through the first half.
Indonesia raised the tempo in the third period and levelled the game via a penalty corner in the 36th minute, briefly shifting momentum. However, Sri Lanka responded like a well-drilled unit, increasing intensity in midfield and stretching the play wide to regain control.
The breakthrough came in the 48th minute when Suresh Rathnayake finished off a swift transition with a composed field goal, restoring Sri Lanka’s lead. Moments later, Sri Lanka capitalised on a penalty corner as Rajitha Kulathunga delivered a precise drag flick in the 52nd minute to extend the advantage to 3-1.
Indonesia fought back immediately with a penalty stroke to cut the deficit to 3-2, setting up a tense final phase. But Sri Lanka’s defensive block, anchored by captain Dammika Ranasingha, absorbed pressure with composure, maintaining shape and closing down key channels to deny any further breakthroughs.
Guided by coach Mohamed Rifas, the Lankan outfit showcased tactical maturity, physical endurance and mental strength, highlighting a team evolving with clear systems and execution.
Sri Lanka will now enter the final on April 10 (Friday) against Oman at 2.30pm Sri Lanka time at the same venue, carrying strong momentum and a golden chance to complete a memorable campaign.
