Changsha (China), Sep 28 (IANS): The Indian baskelball team shook-off a slow start to defeat a spirited Hong Kong 76-71 at the FIBA Asia Championship here on Monday.

With Palestine losing to Japan earlier in the day, the Indians are just one win away from entering the quarter-finals after a gap of 12 years.

Amjyot Singh spearheaded the Indian charge with 26 points and 12 rebounds, while the experienced duo of Yadwinder Singh (18 points) and Vishesh Bhriguvanshi (16 points) also played a crucial role. Amritpal Singh scored eight points.

C. Wong was the highest scorer for Hong Kong with 21 points.

The Indians took time to settle down as the speedy Hong Kong players took a 14-19 lead by the end of the opening quarter. The second period also saw a tough duel before the Indians gained control over the match by outscoring their opponents in the third and fourth quarters.

"Although we were trailing at the beginning, we were fully confident that we would win. My focus has always been on defense but I found that our scoring was stuck, so I stepped up my aggression and it paid off," Yadwinder said after the match.

India will face a tough task against Philippines in their final second round match on Tuesday.