New Delhi: India’s women’s hockey team began the final on a high note, but China rallied to claim a 4-1 victory in the Women’s Asia Cup 2025, denying India a direct spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Veteran forward Navneet Kaur gave India a dream start, scoring from a penalty corner in the very first minute. However, India could not maintain momentum as China fought back with goals from captain Ou Zixia (21’), Li Hong (40’), Zou Meirong (51’), and Zhong Jiaqi (53’).
The win secured China’s place as the eighth qualifier for the 2026 Women’s Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. Hosts Belgium and the Netherlands earned direct entries, while Germany, Argentina, the United States, Spain, New Zealand, and China qualified through continental championships.
India’s defense held strong in the first half, with goalkeeper Bichu Devi making crucial saves, including multiple penalty corner blocks. However, China gradually increased the tempo and broke the deadlock in the 21st minute through Ou Zixia. In the second half, India missed several opportunities, allowing Li Hong, Zou Meirong, and Zhong Jiaqi to capitalize on counterattacks and extend the lead.
Despite the loss, India earned the silver medal, but will now need to navigate additional qualification to secure a place in the next World Cup.
