India Knock Out Defending Champions with Draw
The Indian women’s hockey team delivered a gritty performance to seal their spot in the final of the Women’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025, after playing out a 1-1 draw against Japan in their last Super 4 match in Hangzhou. The result eliminated the defending champions from the title race, while India’s progression was later confirmed thanks to China’s win over Korea.
Having lost to China in their previous Super 4 encounter, India needed at least a draw against Japan to stay alive in the tournament. Despite heavy pressure from the defending champions in the later stages, India’s defensive resilience, combined with an early strike from forward Beauty Dung Dung, ensured they held their ground.
Strong Start from India
India came out with attacking intent and nearly scored within the first two minutes when a shot rebounded off the side post. Their persistence paid off in the seventh minute when Beauty Dung Dung broke the deadlock with a clinical finish past the Japanese goalkeeper. That goal not only gave India a crucial lead but also unsettled Japan, who were caught off guard by the aggressive start.
The first quarter ended with India holding on to their slender advantage. In the second quarter, Japan tried to build pressure and earned their first penalty corner, but the Indian defense held firm. Goalkeeper Savita Punia’s sharp reflexes and the defenders’ composure ensured India went into half-time leading 1-0.
Japan’s Relentless Pressure
The third quarter saw Japan adopt a more attacking strategy, constantly testing India’s backline. While the defending champions enjoyed greater possession and momentum, India kept frustrating their efforts. In the 40th minute, India thought they had doubled their lead, but the umpire disallowed the attempt as the shot was taken outside the attacking circle.
With the scoreline still reading 1-0, the game moved into a tense final quarter. The physical intensity increased, with players from both sides engaging in frequent collisions as the stakes grew higher.
Late Drama in Final Minutes
Japan’s persistence was finally rewarded in the 58th minute when they found the equalizer, leveling the match at 1-1. The goal set up a dramatic finale, but neither side managed to find a decisive strike in the dying moments.
For India, the draw was almost as good as a win. Though they had to wait for the outcome of the China vs Korea clash, their fate swung in their favor when China defeated Korea, confirming India’s entry into the summit clash.
India Fall to China in the Final
In the much-anticipated final, however, India fell short against a dominant Chinese team. Despite a dream start through Navneet Kaur’s penalty corner conversion in the very first minute, the hosts struck back with intensity. China equalized in the second quarter before running away with the game in the second half, scoring three more goals to secure a comprehensive 4-1 victory.
The defeat meant India finished as runners-up, narrowly missing out on direct qualification for next year’s FIH Women’s World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. Nonetheless, the tournament showcased the fighting spirit and growth of the Indian side, who pushed the continental heavyweights to their limits.
Key Takeaways
India’s campaign highlighted both strengths and areas of concern. The defensive unit, led by Savita Punia, was solid under pressure, while young forward Beauty Dung Dung emerged as one of the standout performers. However, inconsistency in finishing and lapses in midfield control cost them dearly in the final against China.
Despite the loss in the summit clash, India’s ability to hold Japan and reach the final underlined their potential to challenge the best in Asia. With continued development and focus on converting chances, the team will be a strong contender in upcoming global tournaments.
Conclusion
The Women’s Hockey Asia Cup 2025 was a tournament of resilience and determination for India. Knocking out defending champions Japan with a 1-1 draw was a highlight that underscored their progress. Though they ultimately fell to China in the final, the performance provided valuable lessons and hope for the road ahead as the team eyes future international glory.
