New Delhi: The India women’s national field hockey team secured a place in the final of the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2026 after defeating Italy women’s national field hockey team 1-0 in a closely fought semi final in Hyderabad.
The decisive moment came in the 40th minute when Manisha Chauhan converted a penalty corner with a powerful drag flick to give India the lead. The goal ultimately proved to be the difference as the hosts held firm to secure victory at the G. M. C. Balayogi Hockey Stadium.
The opening quarter saw both sides battling for control in midfield with limited clear chances. India started positively with a few circle entries, but Italy responded with determined attacks and created several threatening opportunities.
India increased the pressure in the second quarter and earned their first penalty corner in the 18th minute. However, Navneet Kaur saw her attempt blocked by Italian goalkeeper Lucia Ines Caruso. Another penalty corner opportunity arrived in the 27th minute when captain Salima Tete attempted a shot from a clever variation, but Italy’s defender cleared the effort on the goal line. India continued to press but could not break the deadlock before half time.
Italy began the second half with renewed energy and came close to scoring when Emilia Munitis made a dangerous run towards goal. Indian goalkeeper Bichu Devi Kharibam produced a crucial save to keep the match level.
India finally found the breakthrough in the third quarter when Manisha Chauhan’s drag flick from a penalty corner pierced the Italian defence and hit the net. In the final minutes, Italy earned a late penalty corner in the 59th minute but the Indian defence held strong to protect their lead.
India will now face England women’s national field hockey team in the final scheduled for March 14 at 7:30 PM IST.
