India Storm Into Asian Games Women’s Hockey Final

India’s women’s hockey team booked a place in the Asian Games 2026 final after defeating South Korea 2-0 in a tense semifinal in Kakamigahara, Japan. The two sides remained locked in a goalless battle for more than three quarters as South Korea’s disciplined defence repeatedly denied India’s attacking moves. The breakthrough finally came in the 44th minute when Ishika Chaudhary found the back of the net to put India ahead.

India tightened its grip on the match in the final quarter, with captain Salima Tete producing a brilliant run into the shooting circle to help extend the lead to 2-0. The Indian defence then held firm to deny South Korea any comeback and seal a place in the gold-medal match. India will face defending champions China in the final on October 2. The victory also guarantees India at least a silver medal in the women’s hockey event.