India finished a perfect pool stage, remaining undefeated and securing a 3-0 triumph against Japan on Sunday, November 17. Now India will move to the Semi-finals of the Women's Asian Champions Trophy. (Match Highlights | More Hockey News)
Navneet Kaur broke the deadlock in the third quarter with a brilliant goal for India. It all started with her powerful run through midfield, creating the attack. She passed the ball into space for Manisha, but Japan was quick to stop the move.
India reacted very quickly, and the ball was passed to Navneet. She regained control over it, shifted the ball to her left, and hit a super shot from the back into the goalpost.
Before Navneet opened the scoresheet, India struggled to convert the numerous penalty corners they had. However, after their first goal, the momentum shifted, and things began looking up for the Indian team.
Navneet’s goal fueled India’s momentum, and from that point on, they looked unstoppable. Deepika Kumari, the team’s leading goal scorer, followed up with two back-to-back goals, giving India a commanding 3-0 lead.
With 10 goals in the tournament, Deepika remains the leading scorer. And then there were Sushila Chanu and Salima Tete, who played important roles as well. They impressed everyone by their relentless efforts throughout the match.
The Japanese goalkeeper, Yu Kudo, was another who stood out - again and again she managed to save crucial times against India's relentless attacks. Shot after shot Sushila and Salima kept her on her toes. But Kudo showed how brilliant she was in keeping it intact as long as she did. But Navneet and Deepika sealed the victory for India.
Navneet was named Player of the Match, not only for her game-breaking opening goal but also for her all-around performance, making a significant impact on both ends of the field.
With this win, India finish at the top of the group table and will face Japan again in the semifinals on Tuesday.
