Moki, China, September 5 (Daily Kiran) : The Indian junior women’s hockey team kicked off their campaign in the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2026 with a resounding victory over South Korea, winning 4-1 in Moki, China. As the defending champions, India showcased their dominance, having previously claimed the title in the last two editions of the tournament.
From the outset, India displayed a controlled and assertive style of play. Sanika Chandrakant Mane opened the scoring in the eighth minute, giving India a 1-0 lead. The Indian team maintained pressure on the South Korean defense, earning two penalty corners in the first quarter, though they were unable to convert these opportunities into goals.
Continuing their aggressive approach, India secured another penalty corner early in the second quarter. However, despite a re-take, they again failed to find the back of the net. South Korea responded with urgency, earning two penalty corners within five minutes, but India’s defense held firm against their attempts to equalize.
Regaining control, India earned another penalty corner towards the end of the second quarter. This time, Purnima Yadav executed a well-planned strategy, scoring in the 30th minute to double India’s lead to 2-0 by halftime.
South Korea entered the third quarter with renewed determination, trying to mount a comeback. Yet, India’s defense remained resolute under pressure. The team’s efforts paid off late in the third quarter when Pooja Sahu converted yet another penalty corner, extending India’s lead to 3-0.
India’s relentless attacks culminated in the 51st minute when Madhu Sidar scored, bringing the score to 4-0. South Korea continued to fight until the final whistle, managing to score a consolation goal just four minutes before the end, with Gil Gabin finding the net after a variation on a penalty corner.
The Indian junior women’s hockey team will face Malaysia in their next match on Sunday in the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2026.
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