KAKAMIGAHARA, SEPT 30: India’s women’s hockey team produced a composed and determined performance to defeat South Korea 2-0 in the second semi-final of the Asian Games 2026 on Wednesday, securing a place in the gold-medal match against China on October 2.
The victory assured India of at least a silver medal and kept alive the team’s bid to reclaim the Asian Games women’s hockey title for the first time since 1982.
India’s progress to the final comes after a campaign marked by attacking intent, disciplined defending and strong collective performances.
India dominated possession and territory for substantial periods but faced a stubborn Korean defence, with goalkeeper Seoyeon Lee repeatedly denying Indian attempts during the opening two quarters.
India earned several penalty corners and created multiple scoring opportunities, yet South Korea managed to keep the contest goalless at half-time.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 44th minute. India produced a clever penalty-corner variation, with Ishika positioned perfectly to receive the ball and finish from close range, giving India a crucial 1-0 advantage late in the third quarter.
India then strengthened its position early in the final quarter. Captain Salima Tete made a decisive attacking run and helped double the advantage in the 48th minute, giving India the breathing space it needed to manage the remainder of the contest.
South Korea attempted to fight its way back into the match and earned a late penalty corner, but India’s defence remained organised and held firm. The Indian side protected its clean sheet through the closing stages to complete a hard-earned semi-final victory.
Earlier, China defeated hosts Japan 4-2 in a penalty shootout after the two teams remained locked at 0-0 through 60 minutes, setting up the final against India. China enter the title clash as the defending Asian Games champions.
For India, the October 2 final will be an opportunity to finish the campaign with the continental title and end a long wait for another Asian Games women’s hockey gold.
The Indian team’s assured run to the final has already guaranteed a medal, but the players will now turn their focus to the biggest match of their campaign — the battle for gold against China.
