India clinches its second Women’s Asian Champions Trophy title with a convincing 4-0 victory over Japan. The match took place at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand on Sunday. The Indian women’s hockey team displayed a remarkable performance, with goals from Sangita Kumari (17′), Neha (46′), Lalremsiami (57′), and Vandana Katariya (60′). This victory marks India’s first Women’s Asian Champions Trophy title since 2016. In recognition of their achievement, Hockey India has announced a reward of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for each support staff member. The opening quarter of the game was closely contested, with India dominating ball possession. Japan made several attempts, but Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia made crucial saves. The game saw moments of excitement, with Deepika narrowly missing a scoring opportunity for India. Sangita Kumari opened the scoring for India early in the second quarter. Although Japan equalized through Shiho Kobayakawa, the goal was disallowed after a video review revealed a handball. The first half ended with India’s defense holding strong against Japan’s penalty corners. Neha scored India’s second goal from a penalty corner at the start of the final quarter. Lalremsiami and Vandana Katariya added two late goals to seal the victory. After the match, Indian coach Janneke Schopman expressed surprise at the 4-0 scoreline and praised Savita’s performance in goal. Indian skipper Savita acknowledged Japan’s strong performance and emphasized India’s attacking style of play.
