Junior team defends Asia Cup title with win over China

India’s goalkeeper Nidhi stole the limelight in the penalty shootout, making three sensational saves to help India overcome three-time champions China 3-2 (1-1) and clinch their second consecutive Women’s Junior Asia Cup hockey title.

Nidhi’s heroics capped off a stellar performance, having already stood tall during regulation time by thwarting multiple attempts from the Chinese forwards as the four quarters ended in a nerve-wracking 1-1 stalemate.

While skipper Jinzhuang Tan scored for China in the 30th minute, Kanika Siwach’s strike early in the second half (41st minute) brought India back into the game in an intense battle for supremacy.

Sakshi Rana gave India a perfect start in the shootout by converting the first attempt, while Nidhi denied China’s opener.

China fought back as Hao Guoting equalised, and after misses from Mumtaz Khan and Kanika, it was Ishika’s top-corner strike that kept India level at 2-2.

Nidhi’s heroics in the final two attempts, blocking shots from Li Jingyi and Zuo Dandan, set the stage for Sunelita Toppo, who sealed the win with a composed finish to seal a memorable victory for India.

Hockey India announced a reward of Rs 2 lakh for every player and Rs 1 lakh for each support staff member.