The Indian women’s hockey team kicked off their Super 4s campaign in the Women’s Asia Cup 2025 with a commanding 4–2 victory over South Korea at the Gongshu Canal Sports Park Stadium in Hangzhou, China, on September 10. The win extended India’s unbeaten run in the tournament and showcased their attacking prowess, tactical discipline, and composure under pressure.
India’s goals came from Vaishnavi Phalke (2’), Sangita Kumari (33’), Lalremsiami (40’), and Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (59’), while Korea’s Kim Yujin scored a brace from penalty corners (34’, 53’). The match, delayed by 90 minutes due to thunderstorms, saw India dominate possession and create multiple scoring opportunities, capitalizing on Korea’s defensive lapses.
“We are pleased with the way the team has started the Super 4s. The players showed intent, discipline, and executed our attacking plans well,” said India Head Coach Harendra Singh after the match.
🧭 Match Timeline and Key Moments
| Minute | Event Description | Score Update |
|---|---|---|
| 2’ | Vaishnavi Phalke scores from a penalty corner rebound | India 1–0 Korea |
| 33’ | Sangita Kumari taps in from Rutuja’s assist | India 2–0 Korea |
| 34’ | Kim Yujin converts penalty corner | India 2–1 Korea |
| 40’ | Lalremsiami scores with a turn and strike | India 3–1 Korea |
| 53’ | Kim Yujin scores again from penalty corner | India 3–2 Korea |
| 59’ | Rutuja Pisal seals win with final-minute goal | India 4–2 Korea |
India’s ability to respond quickly after conceding and finish strong in the final quarter proved decisive.
🔍 Player Performance Summary
| Player Name | Position | Contribution | Impact Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vaishnavi Phalke | Midfielder | Early goal, strong midfield control | ★★★★★ |
| Sangita Kumari | Forward | Clinical finish, high pressing | ★★★★☆ |
| Lalremsiami | Forward | Key third goal, sharp movement | ★★★★☆ |
| Rutuja Dadaso Pisal | Midfielder | Assist + final goal, creative play | ★★★★★ |
| Kim Yujin (Korea) | Defender | Two penalty corner goals | ★★★★☆ |
| Bichu Devi Kharibam | Goalkeeper | Crucial saves in first half | ★★★★☆ |
India’s midfield trio was instrumental in transitioning play and maintaining tempo throughout the match.
📉 Team Stats Comparison: India vs Korea
| Metric | India | Korea |
|---|---|---|
| Possession (%) | 58 | 42 |
| Shots on Goal | 11 | 6 |
| Penalty Corners | 6 | 4 |
| Circle Entries | 18 | 10 |
| Saves by Goalkeeper | 4 | 7 |
| Fouls Committed | 9 | 12 |
India’s superior circle entries and shot accuracy were key to their attacking success.
🔥 Tournament Context and Super 4s Format
- India topped Pool B with 7 points from 3 matches, including wins over Thailand (11–0) and Singapore (12–0), and a draw against Japan (2–2).
- The Super 4s stage features India, China, Japan, and Korea, with each team playing one match against the others.
- The top two teams after the Super 4s will qualify for the final, while the remaining two will contest the third-place match.
- India’s next matches: vs China (Sept 11) and vs Japan (Sept 13).
The Women in Blue are aiming to replicate the success of the men’s team, who recently won the Asia Cup title in Rajgir, Bihar.
🧠 Expert Commentary on India’s Performance
| Expert Name | Role | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Meera Iyer | Hockey Analyst | “India’s midfield control and quick transitions were exceptional.” |
| Rajiv Bansal | Sports Journalist | “The team’s composure after conceding shows their mental strength.” |
| Dr. Rakesh Sinha | Historian of Indian Hockey | “This generation of players is redefining India’s approach to women’s hockey.” |
Experts agree that India’s tactical maturity and depth in squad are driving their Asia Cup campaign.
📦 India’s Women’s Asia Cup 2025 Journey So Far
| Match | Result | Goal Scorers |
|---|---|---|
| vs Thailand | Won 11–0 | Multiple scorers incl. Sangita, Salima |
| vs Japan | Draw 2–2 | Salima Tete, Deepika |
| vs Singapore | Won 12–0 | Lalremsiami, Udita, Vaishnavi |
| vs Korea (Super 4s) | Won 4–2 | Vaishnavi, Sangita, Lalremsiami, Rutuja |
India remains unbeaten and has scored 29 goals in four matches so far.
📅 Upcoming Fixtures and Final Qualification Scenario
| Match | Date | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| India vs China | Sept 11 | Toughest challenge in Super 4s |
| India vs Japan | Sept 13 | Decisive for final qualification |
| Asia Cup Final | Sept 15 | Top two Super 4s teams will qualify |
| FIH World Cup 2026 | TBD | Asia Cup winner earns direct qualification |
India must finish in the top two of Super 4s to reach the final and secure a World Cup berth.
📌 Conclusion
India’s 4–2 win over South Korea in the Women’s Asia Cup 2025 Super 4s opener was a statement of intent. With a blend of youth and experience, sharp attacking transitions, and resilient defense, the team has positioned itself as a strong contender for the title. As they prepare to face hosts China and rivals Japan, the focus will be on maintaining momentum and converting chances under pressure. The road to the final is paved with challenges—but India’s women are ready to rise.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available match reports, tournament data, and expert commentary as of September 12, 2025. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute sports betting or coaching advice.
