IND vs CHI Asian Champions Trophy Final: India defeated China 1-0 in the Women’s Asian Champions Trophy hockey final on November 20 (Wednesday) in Rajigir, Bihar, successfully defending their title and securing a record-tying third championship to become the most successful team in the tournament's history, matching South Korea with three titles. Indian striker Deepika once again starred for India, scoring a brilliant reverse hit goal to help the team retain the title with a win over Olympic silver medalists China in a thrilling final.
Deepika's decisive goal came from a penalty corner in the 31st minute, securing her position as the tournament’s top scorer with 11 goals. This marks India's third ACT title, having previously won in 2016 and 2023, making them the most successful team in the tournament's history, tied with South Korea with three titles each.
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India Edge Out China In Closely-Contested Final
The final was a closely contested affair, with both India and China making several promising circle penetrations, but their defences were solid during the first two quarters. China earned the first penalty corner of the match in the second quarter, but India’s second goalkeeper, Bichu Devi Kharibam, made a fantastic diving save to deny Jinzhuang Tan.
India then earned four penalty corners in quick succession, but they were unable to convert any, with Deepika taking the majority of the attempts.
In the 23rd minute, China earned another penalty corner, but India’s first rusher defended it well. India continued to press after the break and earned a fifth penalty corner. Deepika finally found the net with a reverse hit following a mis-trap push.
In the 42nd minute, Deepika had the chance to double India’s lead after being awarded a penalty stroke for a deliberate foul inside the circle, but Chinese goalkeeper Li Ting made a stunning reflex save. Ting was again called into action shortly after, saving a shot from Sushila Chanu during India’s sixth penalty corner.
With just one goal separating the teams, China increased their pressure and managed to penetrate India’s defence a few times, but the Indian backline held firm, securing a thrilling victory.
China, on the other hand, had to settle for their third runner-up finish. Japan clinched third place by defeating Malaysia 4-1 in the third-place match earlier in the day.