New Delhi: India’s women’s hockey team kept their Asia Cup 2025 final hopes alive despite being held to a 1-1 draw by Japan in their third and final Super 4 match in Hongzhou, China, on Saturday.
India took the lead in the seventh minute when Beauty Dungdung capitalized on a rebound from Neha’s strike to slot the ball home. However, with just two minutes left on the clock, Shiho Kobayakawa equalized for Japan, leaving India frustrated after dominating large phases of the match.
With this result, India finished their Super 4 campaign with one win, one loss, and one draw, securing four points from three matches. Japan also ended with a draw against India, repeating the group-stage result where both sides played out a 2-2 stalemate.
China, having already won their opening two matches, booked a place in the final with six points. India’s qualification chances now depend on the outcome of the last Super 4 clash between China and South Korea. If China wins or loses by less than three goals, India will advance to the final.
India had their chances to seal the game, winning five penalty corners compared to Japan’s one, but failed to convert any. Goalkeeper Bichu Devi Khairbam stood tall, saving Japan’s penalty corner in the second quarter, while forwards Lalremsiami and Mumtaz Khan came close but could not add to the scoreline.
Despite the late equalizer, the Indian team showed resilience and attacking intent, keeping their dream of reaching the Asia Cup final very much alive.
