New Delhi: India maintained their unbeaten streak with a 4-2 victory over Korea in their first Super 4 stage match of the Women’s Hockey Asia Cup at Hangzhou, China.
India, who topped the pool stages with seven points, raced ahead early with Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke scoring in the 2nd minute from a rebound after Udita’s initial shot was blocked. Sangita Kumari doubled the lead in the 33rd minute, followed by Lalremsiami’s strike in the 40th. Rutuja Dadaso Pisal sealed the win in the 59th minute. Yujin Kim scored both goals for Korea in the 33rd and 53rd minutes. India will face China next on Thursday.
With captain Savita Punia absent, Bichu Devi Kharibam took charge between the posts, delivering crucial saves throughout the match. While Bansuri Solanki rotated in earlier matches, Bichu played all four quarters against Korea, proving her mettle in high-stakes encounters.
India earned early penalty corners, converting the first through Vaishnavi. Despite wasting a second opportunity, they controlled the first half, with Bichu making key saves to keep Korea at bay.
After halftime, Sangita Kumari’s field goal extended India’s lead, but Korea pulled one back via Yujin Kim’s penalty corner. Lalremsiami restored a two-goal cushion before Kim scored again for Korea in the 53rd minute. India responded immediately as Rutuja’s late rebound strike sealed the 4-2 win.
India’s dominance in possession and clinical finishing ensured they started the Super 4 stage on a winning note, keeping their Asia Cup ambitions on track.
