With the help of goals from Deepika and Salima Tete, the Indian women’s hockey team clinched a thrilling victory of 2-1 against China in their third match of the 2023 Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in Ranchi. Deepika scored a goal in the 15th minute, and Salima Tete doubled India’s lead in the 26th minute. China’s lone goal came from Jiayi Zhong in the 41st minute.
India established their dominance from the beginning, maintaining a fast passing tempo and asserting themselves on the pitch in the early quarters. They secured a penalty corner in the dying moments of the first quarter and made the most of it. Deepika skillfully converted it with a precise shot into the lower corner, giving India a 1-0 lead.
China made an aggressive start in the second quarter, coming close to equalizing the score. However, Indian captain Savita displayed remarkable defense, preserving India’s lead. India then increased their attacking efforts, and Salima Tete (26′) scored the second goal with a powerful shot from the circle’s edge, extending India’s lead to 2-0. Just before the end of the second quarter, China earned a penalty corner, but India’s solid defense kept the score at 2-0 going into halftime.
In the third quarter, India resumed their aggressive efforts, securing an early penalty corner. China’s defense successfully thwarted it, and the home team maintained their 2-0 lead. China made an aggressive start in the last quarter, coming close to reducing the deficit. However, India remained committed to their attacking style. On the other hand, China tactically controlled their defense, earning a few penalty corners, although they couldn’t capitalize on these opportunities.
As the clock ticked down, China increased their offensive attempts in search of an equalizer, but India’s resilient defense held firm, securing a 2-1 victory in the end. Despite the narrow lead, India maintained their aggressive style throughout the match. India will face Japan in their fourth match on October 31st in the tournament.