India beat China to reclaim Asian Games hockey crown

India’s women’s hockey team won Asian Games gold for the first time since 1982 after defeating defending champions China 1-0 in the final in Nagoya. Lalremsiami scored in the 10th minute, and goalkeeper Savita Punia produced several important saves as India withstood sustained pressure. The victory also earned India a direct place at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

China had most of the possession early in the match and entered India’s circle repeatedly, but India’s defensive structure prevented a clear opening. India also had to cope with Baljeet Kaur’s temporary dismissal after she received a green card. The goal came after an attacking move involving Salima Tete and Sakshi.

Sakshi’s pass reached Lalremsiami, who sent a powerful reverse hit into the roof of the net. India later won a penalty corner, but Navneet Kaur’s effort went wide. China’s strongest chance arrived in the 23rd minute when it was awarded a penalty stroke after Sushila was judged to have pushed an attacker from behind.

Savita came on for the attempt and made a one-handed save to deny Zhang Ying. China continued to dominate territory after the interval. India’s defenders blocked penalty-corner attempts and closed down attackers, while Salima contributed key defensive interventions before briefly leaving the pitch for treatment to a finger injury.

With more than three minutes remaining, China removed its goalkeeper and sent an extra outfield player forward. India nearly scored into the unguarded goal, but China quickly resumed its attacks. Savita made another important intervention, and India survived a final barrage before the whistle.

India had previously won silver at the 1998 and 2018 Asian Games. The result ended that run of near misses, secured the country’s second women’s hockey gold at the Games and completed a title victory over the reigning champions.