On the 5th of October 2023, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team faced a formidable opponent, China, in the 1st Semi-Final of the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2023. Unfortunately, India suffered a 0-4 loss in a fiercely contested match. Despite their efforts and numerous scoring opportunities, India could not manage to breach the Chinese defense, while China showcased their offensive prowess by netting four goals.
The game began with China swiftly penetrating India’s territory, immediately putting pressure on the Indian defense. China’s early aggression earned them the first Penalty Corner of the game, but India’s Captain and goalkeeper, Savita, made a crucial save to deny China the lead. Simultaneously, the Indian team tried to take control of the game by applying pressure on China and executing quick passes. However, China continued to demonstrate its attacking skills, maintaining constant pressure on India, who defended admirably to keep their opponents at bay.
The second quarter saw China persisting with their aggressive approach, earning another early penalty corner. Nevertheless, Savita once again came to India’s rescue with a commendable save. However, China finally broke the deadlock by capitalizing on a penalty corner, with Jiaqi Zhong’s (25’) shot deflecting off Nikki Pradhan’s foot and crossing the goal-line.
With a 1-0 lead, China continued to dominate the game, maintaining their relentless pressure on India throughout the first half.
In a desperate attempt to find an equalizer, India increased their intensity in the third quarter. Despite India’s efforts, China continued to control the game and extended their lead when Meirong Zou (40’) scored from a penalty corner. India also won consecutive penalty corners during this period but failed to convert them into goals. Deep Grace Ekka’s shot inside the goal was deemed dangerous, leaving India trailing 2-0 as the third quarter concluded.
In the final quarter, India launched a relentless offensive to get back into the game. However, it was China who struck again, this time through counter-attacking. Meiyu Liang (55’) penetrated India’s defense line on the left flank and scored off a rebound, despite Nikki Pradhan’s efforts to save the ball. China sealed their victory with one more goal in the dying minutes, as Bingfeng GU (60’) converted a penalty corner, securing a convincing 4-0 win.
With this win, China earned a spot in the tournament’s final, while India is now set to compete for the Bronze medal. India’s next opponent in the Bronze medal match, scheduled for Sunday, 7th October 2023, at 1330 hrs IST, will be either Korea or Japan. Hockey enthusiasts can catch the live broadcast of this exciting match on Sony Sports Network and via live streaming on Sony Liv.
