Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games Close With South Korea's Fourth Straight Football Gold
The 20th Asian Games took place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, showcasing 43 sports across 469 events, with approximately 17,000 athletes representing 45 nations. China topped the medal standings, while Japan also had a commendable performance. In men's football, South Korea triumphed over Japan with a score of 1–0, thanks to Eom Ji-sung's goal in the 61st minute, marking Korea's fourth straight gold. Japan claimed its third consecutive gold in women's football. Carles Puyol promoted teqball during its inaugural appearance at the Games. Young talents like China’s Yu Zidi and Thailand’s Puripol Boonson stood out. Due to the absence of a dedicated athletes' village, competitors were housed in hotels, container units, and a cruise ship. The Olympic Council of Asia highlighted significant audience participation and numerous record achievements.
Key facts
- The 20th Asian Games were held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4.
- The Games featured 43 sports, 469 medal events and about 17,000 athletes and officials from 45 countries and regions.
- South Korea defeated Japan 1–0 in the men's football final at Toyota Stadium, with Eom Ji-sung scoring in the 61st minute.
- The win gave South Korea a fourth consecutive Asian Games men's football gold and a sixth overall, the most of any nation.
- Eom Ji-sung, a 24-year-old Swansea City winger and one of Korea's over-age players, scored Korea's first and last goals of the tournament and recorded four assists.
- Japan won its third consecutive Asian Games women's football gold medal, according to the Japan Football Association.
- Carles Puyol, former Spain and Barcelona captain, traveled to Japan to promote teqball as it made its Asian Games debut.
- China topped the medal table, and Reuters reported the Games produced dozens of world and continental records.
Entities
Artists
- Eom Ji-sung
- Carles Puyol
- Yu Zidi
- Puripol Boonson
- Son Heung-min
- Lee Kang-in
Institutions
- Asian Games
- Olympic Council of Asia
- Japan Football Association
- Swansea City
- FC Barcelona
- Reuters
- Yonhap
- New York Art Life
Locations
- Aichi-Nagoya
- Japan
- Toyota Stadium
- South Korea
- China
- Thailand
- Spain
- Hangzhou