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Asia Cup Final: A Disappointing Outcome for India

Hangzhou (China): The Indian women's hockey team faced a significant setback, losing 1-4 to China in the Asia Cup final held in Hangzhou, which means they will not secure direct entry into next year's World Cup.

India initially took the lead with a penalty corner goal from Navneet Kaur just a minute into the match. However, China quickly responded, with Zixia Ou scoring in the 21st minute, followed by goals from Hong Li (41st), Meirong Zou (51st), and Jiaqi Zhong (53rd), clinching their third Asia Cup title and a spot in the 2026 World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.

The match began with India seizing an opportunity within 39 seconds through a penalty corner, where Navneet found the net, giving her team an early advantage.

China soon earned multiple penalty corners but failed to convert, thanks to India's solid defense led by Salima Tete.

Despite the early setback, China intensified their attacks, maintaining pressure on the Indian defense, which held firm until they finally equalized with Zixia Ou's penalty corner goal.

This goal seemed to boost China's confidence as they continued to dominate, but the first half ended with both teams tied at 1-1.

After halftime, India attempted to shift their strategy to a more aggressive approach, but China's defense remained impenetrable.

China's persistence paid off when Hong Li scored from a counter-attack, putting India behind once again.

In the final quarter, India, ranked ninth globally, pushed hard for an equalizer but could not penetrate the Chinese defense.

China sealed their victory with two quick goals from Meirong Zou and Jiaqi Zhong, extending their lead and securing the championship.

This defeat highlighted India's struggles, particularly from key players like Mumtaz Khan and Lalremsiami, who were unable to perform at their best in this crucial match.

As a result, India will now need to compete in the World Cup Qualifiers to earn their place in the prestigious tournament.