Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team Triumphs Over South Korea in Asia Cup Opener
India Starts Strong in Junior Asia Cup
A file image of Indian women hockey team( Photo :@ddsportschannel/X)
Moqi (China), Sep 5: The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team kicked off their title defense at the Junior Asia Cup 2026 in China with a solid 4-1 victory against South Korea on Saturday.
The reigning champions, who have clinched the title in the last two editions, showcased a dominant performance against South Korea, with goals from Sanika Chandrakant Mane, Purnima Yadav, Puja Sahoo, and Madhu Sidar.
India started the match with determination, creating multiple chances in the first quarter. Their efforts paid off in the 8th minute when Sanika Chandrakant Mane scored, giving India a 1-0 lead.
Continuing to apply pressure, India earned two penalty corners in the first quarter, including one in the 14th minute, but failed to convert these opportunities. They maintained their lead at the end of the first quarter.
As the second quarter began, India remained aggressive, winning another penalty corner within the first five minutes. They were awarded a re-take after the initial attempt, but again could not score.
South Korea responded by ramping up their attack, earning consecutive penalty corners in a five-minute span as they searched for an equalizer. However, the Indian defense stood strong, thwarting the Korean advances.
India regained control and earned another penalty corner just before halftime. This time, they executed a well-planned variation, with Purnima Yadav scoring in the 30th minute to extend their lead to 2-0.
In the third quarter, South Korea emerged with renewed vigor, looking to get back into the game. Yet, India's defense remained steadfast, while their forwards continued to threaten on counterattacks. Their persistence paid off late in the quarter when they won another penalty corner, which Puja Sahoo converted, increasing India's lead to 3-0.
With a three-goal advantage, India pressed on in the final quarter, seeking another goal. They earned another penalty corner seven minutes into the quarter, but South Korea's defense held firm. Korea also managed to clear another penalty corner as India dominated possession.
Finally, in the 51st minute, Madhu Sidar scored, bringing the score to 4-0. South Korea fought back until the end, managing to score a consolation goal in the 57th minute through KIL Gabin after a penalty corner variation.
Despite this, India secured a convincing 4-1 win, earning three points to start their campaign. The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team will face Malaysia next on Sunday in their second match of the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2026.