The Indian Women’s Hockey Team were crowned champions of the Bihar Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Rajgir 2024 today after a thrilling 1-0 victory over China at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium.
Deepika’s decisive goal in the 31st minute secured the win for India, allowing them to defend their title successfully in a match that showcased tactical finesse and sheer determination from both teams.
The Final saw an intense battle right from the start, with both teams trading circle entries and fighting for control without managing any shots on goal. The first quarter was a test of resilience and defensive capabilities, with both sides making strong attempts to break through. However, both defences held firm, and the first quarter ended goalless.
China took the initiative in the second quarter, creating a penalty corner opportunity within the first two minutes. However, India’s goalkeeper Bichu Devi stepped up with a phenomenal save, leaping high to deny a close-range shot from Jinzhuang Tan. India responded swiftly, earning their own penalty corner moments later, but Deepika’s drag flick was saved by Chinese goalkeeper Surong Wu.
Despite trading several more penalty corners, neither team could break the deadlock, and the first half ended 0-0.
The second half began with renewed vigour from India. Within seconds, they earned another penalty corner, which ultimately set the stage for Deepika’s spectacular goal. After a mist-trap, Navneet passed the ball to Deepika on the left wing of the circle, and she executed a brilliant reverse shot that found the bottom right corner of the goal.
This put India ahead 1-0, sending the Rajgir crowd into raptures.
India then pressed higher up the field, pushing China deep into their half. With just three minutes remaining in the third quarter, China began rotating the ball along their backline, trying to wrest control of the game. However, India regained possession and launched a quick counterattack, resulting in a penalty stroke for Deepika. Unfortunately, her low shot was saved by Ting Li, keeping China in the contest.
In the final quarter, China pressed forward with determination, seeking an equaliser. However, India’s defence proved unyielding. The Indian side quickly regained control and earned another penalty corner just two minutes into the final quarter, but Sushila’s shot was comfortably saved by Surong Wu.
Despite China’s repeated efforts and increased pressure, the Indian defence stood strong, effectively shutting down all opportunities for the opposition. The match ended with India securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory, winning their third Asian Champions Trophy title.
Following the victory, Hockey India announced a reward of Rs. 3 lakh for each player and Rs. 1.5 lakh for each member of the support staff in recognition of their outstanding performance. Additionally, the Asian Hockey Federation marked this edition of the competition with the first-ever rewards for podium finishers: India was awarded a substantial USD 10,000, while China and Japan received USD 7,000 and USD 5,000 respectively.
The Indian Women’s Hockey Team’s victory was a testament to their resilience, teamwork, and the hard work that has gone into their preparation. The journey to this win began over two years ago and has involved dedication from players, coaches, and support staff alike. Deepika, whose goal decided the outcome of the match, embodied the team’s fighting spirit. Speaking after the game, she expressed gratitude to the team’s supporters and reiterated her hope for continued success.
This triumph is another proud moment for Indian hockey, showcasing the skill and determination of the women’s team on an international platform. As they celebrate their victory in Rajgir, the Indian Women’s Hockey Team will look ahead with confidence to future competitions, aiming to build on their success and continue making the country proud.
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