India emerged victorious in the Women’s Junior Asia Cup, clinching the title for the second consecutive time by defeating China 3-2 in a thrilling penalty shootout. The closely contested final ended in a 1-1 draw in regulation time, with China taking the lead in the 30th minute through Jinzhuang Tan’s precise penalty stroke. India responded in the 41st minute when Kanika Siwach netted a stunning equalizer, setting the stage for a high-stakes shootout. Goalkeeper Nidhi proved to be the match-winner, making three outstanding saves to secure India’s triumph.
The game began with both teams demonstrating equal intensity in the first quarter. While possession was evenly shared, neither side managed to break the deadlock. India earned two penalty corners but found the Chinese defense resolute, keeping the score level. In the second quarter, India dominated early exchanges, controlling the play but failing to create clear chances in the shooting circle. China capitalized on a late surge, winning a penalty stroke with 14 seconds left in the half. Jinzhuang Tan converted the opportunity, giving China a narrow 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
India responded with an aggressive approach in the third quarter, taking control of the game. Deepika led the attack, breaking through the Chinese defense and earning a penalty corner, though her drag flick was brilliantly saved by the Chinese goalkeeper. Moments later, a coordinated move between Sunelita Toppo and Deepika set up Kanika Siwach, who scored a superb field goal to level the match at 1-1. Both teams entered the fourth quarter with renewed determination.
The final quarter was fiercely contested as both sides pushed hard for a winning goal. India came close with a penalty corner, but Deepika’s attempt narrowly missed the target. China, too, squandered a late penalty corner. Despite intense efforts from both teams, the deadlock persisted, leading to a decisive penalty shootout.
In the shootout, Sakshi Rana, Ishika, and Sunelita Toppo found the net for India. Goalkeeper Nidhi’s heroics against China’s Lihang Wang, Jingyi Li, and Dandan Zuo ensured a memorable victory. Hockey India celebrated the achievement by announcing a reward of ₹2 lakh for each player and ₹1 lakh for each support staff, acknowledging their collective efforts in securing the championship.
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