The Indian women\u2019s team defeated defending champions China 1-0 in the final at the Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium to win the Asian Games gold for the first time since 1982 and end a 44-year wait for the continental title.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cHeartiest congratulations to the Indian Women\u2019s Hockey Team on a magnificent gold medal triumph at the Asian Games 2026!\u201d President Murmu wrote in a post on X.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cAfter a long wait, the Gold returns to India through your determination, skill and spirited play, bringing immense pride and joy to the entire nation. Securing direct qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games makes this victory even more special,\u201d she added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
President Murmu also highlighted the team\u2019s impact on young athletes across the country. \u201cYou are an inspiration to countless young girls across the country. My warmest wishes to each one of you for the journey ahead!\u201d she wrote.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India\u2019s historic triumph was secured through a 10th-minute goal from Lalremsiami, who finished a flowing move involving Salima Tete and Sakshi with a powerful reverse hit.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Indian defence then produced a resolute display to protect the narrow advantage, with veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia making a crucial one-handed save from a penalty stroke to deny China an equaliser.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India had topped Pool A with four wins from four matches before defeating Japan 7-2 in the semi-finals. The gold medal also secured their direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The triumph marked only India\u2019s second women\u2019s hockey gold at the Asian Games, with their previous title coming in 1982 in New Delhi.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
India had topped Pool A with four wins from four matches before defeating Japan 7-2 in the semi-finals. The gold medal also secured their direct qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Also Read: <\/b> Special Cricket Stories<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n