Women's Asian Champions Trophy 2024: India Thrash China 3-0, Top Group Standings
The Indian women's hockey team defeated China 3-0 in their final group stage match, securing top spot and setting up a clash against Japan.
Rajgir, November 16, 2024: The Indian women's hockey team continued their impressive run at the Women's Asian Champions Trophy 2024, dismantling China 3-0 in their final group stage match at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium. Goals from Sangita Kumari (32'), Salima Tete (37'), and Deepika (60') sealed a comprehensive victory for the hosts. With this win, India not only secured the top spot in their group but also saw Deepika consolidate her position as the tournament's leading goal-scorer with eight goals.
The match was a showcase of India's dominance throughout the tournament. From the outset, they pressed high and created numerous scoring opportunities. Deepika earned an early penalty corner, but the Chinese goalkeeper, Surong Wu, made a fine save. Both defenses were resolute in the first quarter, resulting in a goalless stalemate.
The second quarter saw a similar pattern of play, with India enjoying more possession but unable to break the deadlock. The Chinese launched a few counter-attacks, but the Indian goalkeeper, Bichu, was equal to the task. As the half-time whistle blew, the score remained 0-0.
India finally found the breakthrough in the third quarter. A swift passing move involving Sushmila and Sangita Kumari resulted in the latter deflecting the ball into the net. Five minutes later, Salima Tete doubled India's lead with a clinical finish after a surging run from Preeti Dube.
In the final quarter, China desperately searched for a way back into the match but were met with a resolute Indian defense. Deepika then added a third goal from a penalty corner to complete a comprehensive victory for the hosts.
With this win, India have set up a mouth-watering clash against Japan in their final group match on November 17. The team will be looking to carry their momentum into the knockout stages and go all the way in this prestigious tournament.
Deepika has been the star performer for India in this tournament. Her ability to score goals from both open play and penalty corners has been crucial to the team's success.
The Indian women's hockey team has captured the imagination of the nation with their impressive performances. As they enter the knockout stages, the expectations will only increase. Can they continue their winning run and lift the trophy?
