India Secures Spot in FIH Women’s World Cup Final with Narrow Victory Over Italy

In a gripping semifinal of the FIH Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, India narrowly defeated Italy 1-0, thanks to a penalty corner goal from Manisha Chauhan. This victory propels India into the final against England. The match was marked by intense competition, with both teams creating numerous scoring opportunities. India, already qualified for the World Cup, showcased their skill and determination, ultimately securing their place in the final. England also advanced by defeating Scotland 2-0 in the other semifinal. Read on for a detailed account of the match highlights and key moments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 14, 2026, 02:10 IST

India Advances to World Cup Final After Defeating Italy

In a thrilling semifinal match, India triumphed over Italy with a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a well-executed penalty corner by Manisha Chauhan in the third quarter. This win sets the stage for an exciting final against England in the FIH Women’s World Cup Qualifiers held on Friday.

The decisive goal came in the 40^th minute after a tightly contested first quarter, where both teams fought hard for control of the ball.

India, already qualified for the World Cup scheduled to take place in the Netherlands and Belgium from August 15 to 30, started the match with aggressive circle entries. However, Italy quickly countered with their own offensive plays, creating several scoring chances.

As the second quarter progressed, India began to dominate, utilizing swift flank runs and making significant circle entries to take charge of the match.

In the 18^th minute, India earned their first penalty corner, but Italian goalkeeper Lucia Ines Caruso made a crucial save against Navneet Kaur’s attempt. Another penalty corner was awarded in the 27^th minute, where a clever variation was attempted, but Italy's last defender thwarted the effort.

Despite another chance in the 29^th minute, Navneet's shot went wide of the target.

Italy responded strongly at the start of the second half, with Emilia Munitis making a break towards goal, but Indian goalkeeper Bichu Devi Kharibam made a vital save.

The breakthrough came in the 40^th minute when India was awarded another penalty corner, which Manisha converted with a powerful dragflick that penetrated the Italian defense.

In the final quarter, India sought to extend their lead with two early penalty corners, but Italy's defense remained resolute.

In a last-ditch effort, Italy earned a penalty corner in the 59^th minute, but India successfully defended their lead to secure the win.

Earlier in the day, England secured their place in the final by defeating Scotland 2-0, with goals from Lottie Bingham (25’) and Drcy Bourne (29’).