Indian Women's Hockey Team Advances to FIH World Cup Qualifiers Final

The Indian Women's Hockey team has made a remarkable entry into the final of the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026 after a narrow 1-0 victory against Italy. Manisha Chauhan's goal in the 40th minute secured their spot, setting up a crucial match against England. The semi-final was a tightly contested affair, with both teams showcasing their skills. India will look to capitalize on this momentum as they prepare for the final showdown on March 14. Read on for a detailed recap of the match and what lies ahead for the team.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 14, 2026, 02:12 IST

India Secures Final Spot in FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers

Hyderabad (Telangana) - On March 13, the Indian Women's Hockey team clinched a place in the final of the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026 by defeating Italy 1-0 in a tense semi-final match held at the G M C Balayogi Hockey Ground (Gachibowli Hockey Complex).

Manisha Chauhan scored the decisive goal in the 40th minute, setting up a showdown against England in the final scheduled for Saturday.

The first quarter was fiercely contested, with both teams vying for control in the midfield. India began the match with strong offensive plays, making several entries into the circle, but Italy responded with aggressive attacks, creating notable scoring opportunities.

In the second quarter, India regained momentum, utilizing their flanks to advance the ball and mount attacks in numbers, leading to crucial circle entries. They earned their first penalty corner in the 18th minute, but Italian goalkeeper Lucia Ines Caruso thwarted Navneet Kaur's attempt.

Another penalty corner was awarded in the 27th minute, where a clever variation was attempted, but Captain Salima Tete's shot was blocked on the line by an Italian defender. India had another chance in the 29th minute, but Kaur's shot went wide.

As the second half began, Italy launched a strong offensive, with Emilia Munitis breaking through on goal, but Indian goalkeeper Bichu Devi Kharibam made a vital save. In the 40th minute, India was awarded yet another penalty corner, which they successfully converted. Manisha Chauhan executed a powerful dragflick that pierced the Italian defense and found the back of the net.

In the final quarter, India earned two early penalty corners as they sought to extend their lead, but Italy's defense held firm. In a dramatic finish, Italy won a crucial penalty corner in the 59th minute, but India successfully defended their lead to secure the victory.

India will face England in the final match on March 14 at 7:30 PM IST.