India Triumphs in Women's Junior Asia Cup, Defeating China in Penalty Shootout
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Muscat, Dec 15 (NationPress) The Indian hockey squad achieved a remarkable feat by defeating China 3-2 in a thrilling penalty shootout during the Women’s Junior Asia Cup final held here on Sunday, clinching the championship title for the second time in succession.
Following a 1-1 draw in regulation time, the championship match advanced to a shootout where the defending champions emerged victorious.
In the aftermath of their triumph, Hockey India (HI) declared a cash reward for the team.
"Team India accomplished a phenomenal victory against China in the Junior Women’s Asia Cup 2024 Final, succeeding in an exhilarating penalty shootout. As recognition for their exceptional performance, Hockey India has announced a cash award of Rs2 lakhs for each player and Rs1 lakh for the support staff," HI posted on X.
China's Jinzhuang Tan (30’) opened the scoring, but Kanika Siwach (41’) equalized for India in the third quarter, leading to the penalty shootout. India’s goalkeeper Nidhi made three pivotal saves during the shootout, securing the title for her team.
Both teams matched each other stride for stride in the opening quarter, each attempting to secure the initial goal. The possession was evenly distributed, with both sides generating significant opportunities but failing to find the back of the net. India was awarded two penalty corners, yet the Chinese defense held firm to maintain the stalemate.
India started the second quarter on a strong note, controlling the play but unable to convert chances in the shooting circle. Towards the end of the second quarter, China gained momentum and pressured the Indian defense. With just 14 seconds remaining, China was awarded a penalty stroke. Jinzhuang Tan successfully converted the opportunity, putting China ahead as the teams entered the second half.
The third quarter saw India intensify their attack and dominate the proceedings. Deepika executed a brilliant dribble, penetrating the Chinese defense and earning a penalty corner. Despite her attempts, the Chinese goalkeeper made a series of saves. Moments later, in the 41st minute, Sunelita Toppo and Deepika connected with precise passes, finding Kanika Siwach in the shooting circle, who netted a stunning field goal to level the score at 1-1 as both teams headed into the final quarter.
With everything to play for in the last fifteen minutes, both teams fought hard for the winning goal. India earned a penalty corner with ten minutes to go, but Deepika's attempt went narrowly wide. Shortly after, China also squandered a penalty corner. Despite both teams giving their all on the field, the score remained tied after the four quarters, leading to a penalty shootout.
Sakshi Rana, Ishika, and Sunelita Toppo scored for India in the shootout, while goalkeeper Nidhi made three incredible saves against Lihang Wang, Jingyi Li, and Dandan Zuo, ensuring India retained their title.
