India’s men’s volleyball team staged a remarkable comeback against Qatar, overcoming a two-set deficit to secure a 3-2 victory and advance to the quarterfinals of the Asian Games. The win on September 29 marked India’s third consecutive victory in Pool C, keeping the team unbeaten in the group stage.
Qatar started strong, narrowly winning the opening set 28-26 and taking the second 27-25. Facing elimination, India responded with renewed vigor, capturing the third set 25-23 and maintaining momentum to claim the fourth 25-20, forcing a decisive fifth set.
The final set was a tense battle, with India prevailing 24-22. The match lasted two hours and 47 minutes, highlighting the intensity and resilience displayed by the Indian players.
India began its campaign with a 3-0 victory over Vietnam, winning sets 25-23, 25-21, and 25-20. This was followed by another straight-set win over Hong Kong China, taking sets 25-22, 25-19, and 25-21. Against Qatar, Jerome Vinith led India’s scoring with 27 points, all through spikes. Amit Singh Balwan contributed 24 points, including 22 spikes and two blocks.
Joel Benjamin Jebaraj added 17 points, comprising 14 spikes, two blocks, and one service point. With three wins out of three matches, India has secured a spot in the men’s volleyball quarterfinals, where all four quarterfinal matches are scheduled for October 1, 2026. The comeback win against Qatar gives India strong momentum heading into the knockout stage.
