In the final of the Asian Champions Trophy held in Ranchi on Sunday, the Indian women’s hockey team secured a resounding victory over the Japanese team, clinching the prestigious title. Sangita Kumari initiated the scoring for the Indian team, followed by goals from Neha, Lalremsiami, and the experienced Vandhana Katariya, ultimately sealing a stylish victory in the championship match.
After their victory, Hockey India declared a prize of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for every support staff member on the victorious team. The tournament hosts remained undefeated throughout their journey to the championship match, which they ultimately won. In the semifinals, the Indian women confidently overcame the South Korean team with a 2-0 victory, following their dominant 5-0 performance against the same opponents in the final group match.
The Indian team began with an aggressive approach, contrasting Japan‘s more defensive strategy, which relied on counterattacks. India had a prime chance to secure a lead, but Deepika couldn’t convert in a one-on-one encounter with the Japanese goalkeeper, Akio Tanaka. Throughout the game, India maintained control of the ball while Japan focused on defending. Japan also had opportunities of their own, but they were unable to penetrate the determined Indian defense.
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