Did India’s Women’s Hockey Team Fall to China in the Super4?

Hangzhou, Sep 11 (NationPress) In a thrilling Super4s matchup, the Indian women’s hockey team faced a challenging defeat against the hosts, China, with a score of 1-4 at the Women’s Asia Cup 2025 held in Hangzhou on Thursday. The lone goalscorer for India was Mumtaz Khan (38'), while the Chinese team found the net through Zou Meirong (4', 56'), Chen Yang (31'), and Tan Jinzhuang (47').

The match kicked off with an energetic first quarter, where both teams launched attacks into the striking circles, generating significant opportunities. However, it was China who drew first blood early on. In the 4th minute, despite a commendable save by India, the rebound fell to Zou Meirong (4'), who effortlessly tapped the ball into the unguarded goal. India fought hard to equalize but struggled with their finishing in front of the net, and their first penalty corner in the 10th minute was thwarted by the swift Chinese defense.

The second quarter continued with high-paced action, yet neither side was able to convert their chances into goals. In the closing five minutes of the first half, India ramped up their efforts, applying persistent pressure on the Chinese defensive line and controlling possession as they sought their first goal. In the 27th minute, India earned another penalty corner, but again could not capitalize, heading into halftime trailing by a goal.

In the opening minute of the third quarter, China extended their lead with a surprising goal, as India lost possession within their own circle to an unmarked Chen Yang (31'), who scored with ease. China subsequently earned their first penalty corner of the match, but their attempt went wide. In the 38th minute, Mumtaz Khan (38') delivered a stunning field goal for India, narrowing the gap. Lalremsiami assisted her beautifully at the edge of the circle, allowing her to unleash a powerful backhand shot from distance. Shortly after, Zou Meirong attempted a close-range shot, but India's Bichu Devi made an impressive save to keep the scoreline intact.

The final quarter saw China come out strong, adding to their scoreline. They won a penalty corner in the 47th minute, which Tan Jinzhuang (47') converted after a deflection off a defender's stick. The Chinese team sealed their victory with another field goal from Zou Meirong (56'), securing their place in the finals of the Women’s Asia Cup.

India's next challenge will be against Japan on Friday in their third Super4s match, as they aim for a victory that could propel them into the finals for a rematch with the hosts, China, for the coveted title.