The Indian women's hockey team has suffered its first defeat of the Asia Cup, losing 1-4 to hosts China in a Super 4s match in Hangzhou on Thursday. India's inability to convert its chances, particularly from three penalty corners, proved costly. China's victory was sealed by two goals from Zou Meirong, and one each from Chen Yang and Tan Jinzhuang.
China took an early lead in the fourth minute when Zou Meirong capitalized on a rebound from an Indian save, tapping the ball into an empty net. India attempted to respond and earned its first penalty corner in the tenth minute, but the Chinese defense held firm. The second quarter saw India increase the pressure and control possession, but they were unable to equalize before the break.
China extended its lead in the first minute of the third quarter when Chen Yang scored from an unmarked position inside the circle after an Indian defensive error. India, however, responded with a goal from Mumtaz Khan, who scored in the 38th minute with a powerful back-handed shot from the edge of the circle. This was India's only goal of the match.
Despite a good save by India's goalkeeper Bichu Devi shortly after, China continued to press. The hosts sealed their victory in the final quarter with two more goals. Tan Jinzhuang converted a penalty corner in the 47th minute, and Zou Meirong completed her brace with a field goal in the 56th minute. The win secured China's place in the tournament final.
The loss puts significant pressure on India's upcoming match against Japan. The Indian team must secure a victory in that game to have a chance at qualifying for the final and a potential rematch against China. India, which had previously defeated Korea in its Super 4s opener, will need to improve its finishing and penalty corner conversion to stay in the running for the title.
