India Women’s Hockey Clinches Semifinal Berth After 3‑1 Win Over Japan

At the Nagoya venue of the Asian Games, the Indian women’s hockey team cemented its place in the semifinals by beating the host nation Japan 3‑1 in a decisive Pool B match. The game opened with Lalremsiyami scoring from open play, followed by Ishika’s goal just before the break, giving India a 2‑0 lead.

Japan’s defence held firm in the first half, but the Indians exploited every opportunity inside the striking circle. Navneet Kaur’s third‑quarter strike—collected inside the circle, turned to the right and lifted over the goalkeeper—sent the score to 3‑0. Japan’s Kobayakawa Shiho managed a lone goal early in the fourth quarter, yet India’s disciplined play ensured a 3‑1 finish, extending their winning streak to four matches and booking a semifinal appearance.