Asian Women’s Handball Championship: India Fights Hard but Falls to Japan, Securing Third Place in Group Stage
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New Delhi, Dec 6 (NationPress) Despite scoring 15 goals against the former champions Japan, which is more than any other team has achieved in the tournament thus far, India faced a tough defeat in their third match of the Asian Women’s Handball Championship 2024. Losing with a score of 48-15, India’s loss signifies that they are out of the semifinals and will now contend in the 5-8th place bracket for final rankings.
Maninder Kaur netted India’s opening goal following a challenging start, while goalkeeper Nina Shil continued her impressive performance from the previous match, successfully defending against Japan’s initial assaults. As the match unfolded, India worked the ball across the court, striving to find a gap in the resilient Japanese defense, but the formidable opponents quickly established a significant lead over the home team.
Amidst Japan's relentless attacks, there were noteworthy moments for India. At a pivotal moment in the first half, Sushma’s long-distance goal received thunderous applause from the Indian supporters in attendance. Shortly after, Bhawana Sharma intercepted a Japanese offensive move, sprinted towards the goal, and finished brilliantly. Just before halftime, Bhawana scored yet another exceptional solo goal, while captain Diksha energized the crowd with an incredible leg save.
Following the halftime break, former champions Japan surged ahead, effectively squashing India’s hopes of qualification. Nevertheless, the hosts delivered a commendable performance, leaving a significant impression on the Japanese squad. India’s defeat, coupled with Iran’s 26-17 victory over Hong Kong-CHN, resulted in India finishing third in their group.
Earlier in the day, Kazakhstan enhanced their chances for qualification with a decisive 38-7 victory against Singapore; their advancement to the next round was solidified later when South Korea triumphed over China in a clash of the titans. Led by a Player of the Match performance from Lee Yeongyeong, the reigning champions defeated China 25-14, extending their winning streak in the tournament.
India is set to face Singapore in the 5-8th place match, and the winner of this encounter will go on to challenge either China or Hong Kong-CHN in the placement finals.
Simultaneously, in the main bracket, South Korea will battle Iran, while Kazakhstan will face Japan. All semifinal matches are scheduled for December 8.
