India's U18 Women's Hockey Team Falls Short Against China in Semifinal Shootout
Intense Semifinal Ends in Heartbreak for India
Photo: @RevSportzGlobal/X
Kakamigahara, June 5: In a thrilling semifinal match of the U18 Asia Cup, the Indian women's hockey team faced a tough challenge against China, ultimately losing 1-3 in a shootout after a 2-2 draw over four quarters. Goals for India were scored by Nousheen Naz (3') and Kiran Ekka (54'), while China's Li ZeYan (24') and Zhang Yuzheng (48') found the net for their team.
India started strong, taking the lead early in the third minute. Captain Sweety Kujur delivered an excellent pass to Nousheen, who executed a powerful back-handed shot to score. Both teams created several opportunities in the midfield, but the first quarter ended without any further goals.
In the 21st minute, China earned a penalty corner, but Indian goalkeeper Mahak Parihar made a fantastic save against Feng Jiaxin's dragflick. However, just three minutes later, a defensive lapse allowed Li ZeYan to score a field goal, leveling the match at 1-1.
During the third quarter, China was awarded another penalty corner in the 34th minute, but India's defense held firm, preventing them from taking the lead. Although China maintained possession, they could not capitalize on their chances.
India received consecutive penalty corners in the 43rd minute but failed to convert. As the match progressed into the final quarter, both teams remained tied at 1-1.
In the third minute of the last quarter, China took the lead with a penalty corner. The initial shot was blocked, but Zhang Yuzheng scored on the rebound, giving China a 2-1 advantage.
India quickly responded, with Kiran converting a penalty corner in the 54th minute to equalize at 2-2, leading to a shootout to determine the winner.
In the shootout, China triumphed 3-1, thanks to outstanding saves from their goalkeeper Liu Xue. Lu Tong Tong, Ge Chen, and Guo Jiaxin successfully converted their attempts, while Sandeepa Kumari was the only Indian player to score.
The second semifinal will feature Japan against Korea, with India set to compete for the bronze medal against the losing team on June 6.