The Indian women's hockey team fought back from behind twice to secure a thrilling 2-2 draw against defending champions Japan in their second pool match of the Asia Cup in Hangzhou. The dramatic equalizer came from Navneet Kaur, who scored from a penalty corner with just seconds left on the clock, rescuing a point for India in a pulsating Pool B match.
The match began with India on the attack, but it was Japan who drew first blood. In the 10th minute, Hiroka Murayama scored to give Japan a 1-0 lead, which they held for the rest of the first quarter. India pressed hard for an equalizer, and their efforts were rewarded in the final minute of the first half when Rutaja Dadaso Pisal scored, leveling the contest at 1-1 just before the halftime break.
The second half was a tense, back-and-forth affair with both teams adopting a cautious approach. Despite India's dominance in possession and attacking opportunities, they couldn't find a way past Japan's disciplined defense. The momentum shifted in the final quarter when Japan's pressure paid off. A penalty stroke was awarded to Japan, and Chiko Fujibayashi calmly converted it in the 58th minute to put her team ahead 2-1.
A defeat would have been a harsh result for India, who had created numerous chances throughout the match. With just seconds left, the team showed incredible resilience, earning a penalty corner. Navneet Kaur, serving as vice-captain in the absence of veteran players, stepped up and fired home a powerful shot, snatching the equalizer and ensuring both teams shared the spoils.
This result leaves India, who had thrashed Thailand 11-0 in their opening match, with four points in Pool B. The team will now face Singapore in their final group match on Monday. The top two teams from each of the two pools will advance to the Super 4s stage, with a spot in the 2026 Women's World Cup also on the line for the tournament winner.