Muscat: China defeated India 2-1 in a tense third Pool A encounter at the Women’s Junior Asia Cup in Muscat. With this victory, China secured their spot in the semi-finals as Pool A champions, earning three points. The goals for China came from Lihang Wang (42′) and Jinzhuang Tan (32′), while Deepika (56′) scored for India, extending her lead as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.
The match was marked by intense action from both teams, as they sought an early advantage in the first quarter. Despite several opportunities, India struggled in the shooting circle. China was awarded a penalty corner towards the end of the first quarter, but India’s goalkeeper Nidhi made a crucial save to keep the score level.
India earned two penalty corners in the second quarter but failed to convert them into a goal. After a fiercely contested first half, both teams went into the break without scoring.
The match saw its first breakthrough in the third quarter when China’s Xueling Zeng initiated a fast counterattack, was fouled in the circle, and earned a penalty stroke. Jinzhuang Tan converted it into a goal, putting China ahead. In the 42nd minute, China extended their lead as Lihang Wang scored from a penalty corner.
Despite trailing by two goals going into the final quarter, India fought back. Deepika scored from close range in the 56th minute after a well-placed pass from Kanika Siwach. However, India was unable to find an equalizer, and China held on for the 2-1 win.
