India Women Beat Japan To Extend Asian Games Winning Run
The Indian women’s hockey team continued its unbeaten run at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games 2026, defeating hosts Japan 3-1 in their fourth consecutive victory on Friday. Goals from Lalremsiami, Ishika Chaudhary and Navneet Kaur helped India strengthen their position at the top of Pool B and virtually seal a place in the semifinals.
Lalremsiami Gives India Early Lead
India made a strong start, with Lalremsiami opening the scoring in the fifth minute through a field goal. The visitors maintained their attacking pressure, creating several opportunities against a determined Japanese defence.
India struggled to convert penalty corners, managing to score only once from five attempts in the first half.
However, the Indian team doubled its lead in the 30th minute when Ishika Chaudhary scored from a rebound after Navneet Kaur’s initial attempt was saved by the Japanese goalkeeper.
Navneet Kaur Extends India’s Advantage
India continued their attacking approach after the break, with Navneet Kaur making it 3-0 in the 36th minute. She finished with a well-executed scoop after some impressive stickwork created the opportunity.
The Indian defence remained organised, with effective interceptions limiting Japan’s attacking opportunities throughout the third quarter.
Navneet came close to adding another goal late in the quarter, but the Japanese goalkeeper made a timely save.
Japan Fight Back In Final Quarter
Japan came out with greater intent in the final quarter and reduced the deficit through Shiho Kobayakawa in the 46th minute. She scored with a powerful tomahawk shot from the top of the circle, beating veteran Indian goalkeeper Savita.
India earned another penalty corner in the 50th minute but failed to convert. Japan also had a penalty corner in the closing stages, but the Indian defence held firm to secure the 3-1 victory.
India Close In On Asian Games Semifinal Spot
The victory marked India’s fourth consecutive win in Pool B and strengthened their chances of reaching the semifinals.
India had opened their campaign with a 19-0 win over Uzbekistan, followed by a 17-1 victory against Indonesia and a 20-1 triumph over Thailand.
The Indian women’s hockey team will conclude its pool-stage campaign against Singapore on Sunday.
