India Edges Korea 3-2 in Thrilling Clash at Rajgir in Women’s Asian Champions Trophy

Rajgir: The Indian women’s hockey team secured a 3-2 victory over Korea in their second match of the Bihar Women’s Asian Champions Trophy, held at the Rajgir Sports Complex Hockey Stadium. Key goals from Sangeeta Kumari (3′) and Deepika (20′, 57′) led India to the win, while Korea’s Lee Yuri (34′) and captain Cheon Eunbi (38′) kept the contest close with their strikes.

India started the match with impressive speed, as Neha intercepted the ball in midfield and passed it to Navneet Kaur, who quickly set up Sangeeta Kumari for the opening goal. Sangeeta’s reverse shot found the back of the net, beating Korean goalkeeper Kim Eunji. India’s high-press tactics made it difficult for Korea to break through, while Korea’s defense worked hard to contain India’s forwards.

Korea ramped up the pressure in the second quarter, but India’s defense held firm. Five minutes into the period, Sunelita Toppo gained possession and passed the ball to Beauty Dungdung, who set up Deepika for India’s second goal, pushing the score to 2-0 at half-time.

Korea mounted a comeback in the third quarter, with Lee Yuri scoring from a penalty corner in the 34th minute. Four minutes later, captain Cheon Eunbi equalised with a penalty stroke, making it 2-2. Despite several scoring opportunities, India was unable to regain the lead during the third quarter.

The decisive moment came in the final quarter when Deepika netted her second goal from a penalty stroke, putting India back in front at 3-2. Despite Korea’s efforts to equalise, India’s defense held strong, securing a hard-fought victory.

India will face Thailand next on November 14 at 4:45 PM, with the match available to stream live on Sony Sports Ten 1, SonyLIV, and DD Sports.