Rajgir: The India defeated Japan 3-0 in their last group stage match of the Bihar Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Rajgir 2024 at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium today. Japan showcased exemplary defence in the first half of the game but second half goals from Navneet Kaur (37’) and Deepika (47’, 48’) sealed India’s victory. With this result India have finished on top of the table without dropping a single point and confirmed their rematch with Japan, who finished fourth on the table, in the Semi Final on November 19.
India began the game with a slow, patient buildup, pushing Japan back. They dominated possession in Japan’s half but struggled to create significant chances until Deepika drew a foul in the circle, earning a penalty corner with six minutes left in the first quarter. Despite her powerful low flick, Japanese keeper Yu Kudo made a strong save. As the quarter came to a close, India showed a sense of urgency; Manisha and Neha combined to secure another penalty corner, but they failed to capitalize, and the first quarter ended goalless.
Japan started the second quarter with more ball control, probing India’s shooting circle but unable to find a way through their defense. Both teams traded circle entries, but no clear goalscoring opportunities emerged until India earned a penalty corner five minutes before the halftime whistle. The Japanese defense, however, scrambled to make several close-range saves. As the half drew to a close, Japan took the initiative and pushed India back into their shooting circle, but the Indian defense held firm, keeping the scoreline at 0-0.
India began the third quarter on the front foot. Lalremsiami drove through the center and passed to Salima Tete, who quickly relayed it to Deepika. However, her tame shot was easily cleared away. Despite India’s dominance, Japan remained unfazed until Navneet Kaur took matters into her own hands with eight minutes left in the quarter. She picked up the ball at the top of the shooting circle and unleashed a reverse shot while dashing towards the left corner, catching Japanese keeper Yu Kudo off guard and breaking the deadlock. Japan then stepped out of their defensive setup in search of an equalizer, making the game more end-to-end. However, neither team managed to create a clear goalscoring chance, and India ended the third quarter leading 1-0.
The last quarter kicked off with a penalty corner for India. On the third retake, Deepika unleashed a powerful low flick towards the right post, doubling India’s lead. India pressed their advantage and earned another penalty corner in the very next minute. This time, Deepika powered the ball over the keeper and into the goal, making it 3-0 in India’s favour. From there, India took complete control of the match, ensuring they ended the group stage with yet another victory.
China Stun Korea with a 2-0 Victory
The game saw China display tactical brilliance and defensive resilience, earning them a well-deserved triumph against a formidable opponent.
China started the match with high intensity, quickly asserting control over the game. Their attacking play was rewarded in the first quarter when Li Yang converted a penalty corner with a precise drag flick, putting China in the lead.
Korea, known for their disciplined approach, tried to fight back but struggled to break through China’s organized defense. The Chinese midfield, led by captain Wang Na, controlled the tempo, ensuring Korea’s attacking opportunities were limited. The first half ended with China holding a 1-0 advantage.
Korea came out strong in the second half, attempting to equalize through quick counterattacks and set plays. However, China’s defense, bolstered by goalkeeper Liu Ping’s exceptional performance, thwarted every attempt.
In the final quarter, China extended their lead when Zhang Mei scored a brilliant field goal after a swift attacking move, effectively sealing the match at 2-0. Korea pushed hard in the dying minutes but couldn’t find a way past the resolute Chinese defense.
Malaysia Secure a Confident 2-0 Victory Over Thailand
The match saw Malaysia earning a well-deserved 2-0 win against Thailand. the encounter was a testament to Malaysia’s tactical discipline and attacking flair, allowing them to gain crucial points in the tournament.
From the very beginning, Malaysia showcased their intent with swift passing and aggressive attacks. Thailand’s defense, while resilient, struggled to cope with Malaysia’s pace and creativity. The breakthrough came late in the first quarter when Nur Aina converted a penalty corner with precision, giving Malaysia an early 1-0 lead.
Thailand attempted to mount counterattacks but found it challenging to penetrate Malaysia’s well-organized defense. The first half ended with Malaysia firmly in control, maintaining their slender lead.
The second half continued in the same vein, with Malaysia dominating possession and creating more scoring opportunities. In the third quarter, Malaysia doubled their lead when Fatin Shafika scored a brilliant field goal, weaving through the Thai defense and slotting the ball past the goalkeeper.
Thailand, despite their best efforts, couldn’t find a way to break through Malaysia’s solid backline. The Malaysian defense, led by their experienced goalkeeper, ensured a clean sheet and secured the victory.
With inputs from fih.hockey
