India finally reclaimed the Asian Games women’s hockey crown after 44 years by overcoming defending champions China 1-0 in a closely fought final at Kakamigahara on Friday.
The victory also earned the Indian team direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Lalremsiami put India ahead in the 10th minute with a fierce reverse-hit that proved decisive.
Salima Tete created the opening with an accurate pass into the circle, while Sakshi then moved the ball towards Lalremsiami, who smashed her effort into the top of the net.
China responded by increasing its possession and repeatedly entering the Indian circle. India’s defensive unit, however, maintained its shape and dealt with the growing pressure, including a vital goal-line clearance from Navneet Kaur.
Savita Punia Keeps China at Bay
Savita Punia produced another crucial intervention when she stopped a Chinese penalty stroke with a superb one-handed save.
Her timely effort allowed India to carry their one-goal advantage into the interval.
China continued to press after the restart and earned several penalty corners during the third quarter. Indian players repeatedly blocked the attempts and refused to surrender their lead.
The defending champions intensified their assault in the closing minutes and even withdrew their goalkeeper to add another outfield player.
India nevertheless controlled the final stages and prevented China from creating the clear opening needed to force a shootout.
India had last won the women’s hockey gold at the Asian Games in 1982 in New Delhi. The team subsequently reached the final in 1998 and 2018, collecting silver medals on both occasions.
India had topped Pool A with four victories before overcoming Japan 7-2 in the semi-finals. They had also defeated Pakistan 7-1 during the group stage.
The historic gold capped an impressive campaign and confirmed India’s qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
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