How Did the Indian Women’s Hockey Team Start Their Asia Cup Campaign?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India secured a dominating 11-0 win against Thailand.
- Mumtaz Khan and Udita were standout performers with multiple goals.
- The team's next match is against Japan.
- Advancement to the Super 4s is crucial for the team's World Cup aspirations.
- India aims for a spot in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026.
Hangzhou, Sep 5 (NationPress) The Indian women's hockey team commenced their Asia Cup 2025 journey with an impressive display, overpowering Thailand with a stunning score of 11-0 in their Pool B match here on Friday.
Mumtaz Khan (7', 49'), Udita (30', 52') and Beauty Dung Dung (45', 54') each netted two goals for India, while Sangita Kumari (10'), Navneet Kaur (16'), Lalremsiami (18'), Sharmila Devi (57') and Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (60') added their names to the scoresheet.
India asserted their dominance from the start, with field goals from Mumtaz Khan (7') and Sangita Kumari (10') in the first quarter. The second quarter showcased India's attacking prowess, leading to three more goals and a significant halftime lead.
Veteran forward Navneet Kaur (16') and midfielder Lalremsiami (18') scored consecutive field goals, followed by a penalty corner conversion from Udita (30') to conclude the first half on a high note.
The latter half continued with India maintaining pressure within Thailand's circle, winning four penalty corners in the third quarter, where Beauty Dung Dung (45') scored her first goal.
The final quarter was a spectacle, with India scoring five consecutive goals to secure a resounding victory. Mumtaz Khan (49'), Udita (52') and Sharmila Devi (57') converted penalty corners, while Beauty Dung Dung (54') and Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (60') scored from the field.
Next, India will take on Japan on Saturday in their second Pool B encounter.
The top two teams from pools A and B will advance to the Super 4s stage, where they will compete for rankings. The bottom two teams from each pool will play for classifications and world ranking points.
The champion of the women’s competition will secure a prestigious place in the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium and Netherlands 2026.