Indian women’s hockey team ended their long-standing wait of 44 years as they secured the gold medal at the Asian Games 2026. The Indian women took down China in the summit clash 1-0 at Kakamigahara on Friday.
The highlight of the game when legendary goal keeper Savita Punia came up with a crucial penalty stroke save in the second quarter.
India got their lead in the opening quarter with Lalremsiami Hmarzote’s goal. China were awarded with a penalty stroke, which was not less than a golden chance to level the game. However, Punia made a stunning save to keep India ahead of their Chinese counterparts.
In the eighth minute of the second quarter, Zhang Ying took the penalty stroke, but Punia, an experienced goalkeeper guessed it right and dived her left to save it in a brilliant manner.
Because big moments call for BIG saves from BIG players. 🤩
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Lalremsiami hits decisive goal in opening quarter, India maintain lead throughout fixture
In the tenth minute of the clash, Lalremsiami came up with a goal that gave the ultimate winners an upper hand in the contest. Salima Tete provided a pass in the circle before Sakshi delivered the ball to Lalremsiami.
She hit a reverse-hit that flew into the roof of the net. The Chinese team gave a tough competition to the Indians, attempting multiple comebacks. However, the Indian defense stood the test of time and Navneet Kaur produced a key goal line clearance, denying penalty corner attempts to the silver medalists.
With Punia’s save, India entered the second half with a lead and maintained it for the rest of the game. Even in the third quarter, the rivals continued their fight but Indian Women maintained a tough front to take gold home.
