(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Indian Women’s Hockey Team Draws 1-1 with Japan in Thrilling Women Asia Cup 2025 Clash
The Indian women’s hockey team delivered an exciting performance at the Women Asia Cup 2025 in Hangzhou, China, ending in a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Japan on Saturday. This result keeps India’s hopes alive for a spot in the final, as they now rely on China’s match against Korea. If China wins or loses by fewer than three goals, India advances.
In the match, India struck first early on. Beauty Dung Dung scored in the 7th minute, deflecting a shot from Neha past the Japanese goalkeeper to give India a 1-0 lead. Japan fought back hard, and it was Shiho Kobayakawa who equalized in the 58th minute, securing the draw for her team.
Right from the start, India dominated the opening minutes. Ishika Chaudhary nearly scored by hitting the goalpost, setting an aggressive tone. Japan tried to build attacks, but India’s quick defense shut them down. Dung Dung’s goal came from a smart deflection, and India earned their first penalty corner just before the end of the first quarter, heading into it with a 1-0 advantage.
The second quarter saw Japan push for an equalizer, winning a penalty corner of their own. But India’s defense stood strong, blocking it easily. As the half wore on, India regained control and pressed forward, though Japan’s backline held firm. Both teams traded pressure in the closing stages, but India kept their lead at halftime, still 1-0.
Coming out strong in the third quarter, India ramped up the attacks. Lalremsiami led several dangerous moves, keeping Japan’s defense on edge. The Indian team controlled the play and created chances, but they couldn’t find that second goal despite their dominance. The score remained 1-0 at the end of the quarter.
In the final quarter, Japan turned up the heat, desperate for a tie. As defending champions, they piled on the pressure, but India’s defenders repelled wave after wave of attacks. Midway through, India countered with a series of penalty corners, flipping the momentum. However, in the dying minutes, Kobayakawa’s strike leveled the score at 1-1.
The match ended in a well-deserved draw, with both sides showing great spirit. This Women Asia Cup 2025 encounter highlights India’s solid play and keeps fans on the edge of their seats for the next round.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
