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Hockey WC Qualifiers: Italy-Korea Draw 1-1; England Tops Pool A

Italy and Korea played to a 1-1 draw in their Pool A match at the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad. England secured their third consecutive victory in Pool A, defeating their opponent with goals from Grace Balsdon and Holly Hunt. The Indian women's team leads Pool B and can secure a semi-final berth with a win or draw against Wales in their final pool game. India's strong tournament run has featured standout performances from Sunelita Toppo and a solid defense led by goalkeeper Bichu Devi.

Key Points: Hockey WC Qualifiers: Italy-Korea Draw, England Wins Pool A

  • Italy and Korea draw 1-1 in Pool A
  • England wins third straight match to top Pool A
  • India faces Wales with semi-final spot at stake
  • India's qualification could hinge on goal difference
  • Young forward Sunelita Toppo a standout for India
2 min read

Hockey WC Qualifiers: Italy and Korea play out 1-1 draw; England top Pool A

Italy and Korea draw 1-1 in FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers. England tops Pool A. India eyes semi-final spot against Wales in Hyderabad.

"The Indian Women's Hockey Team will look to seal semis berth against Wales in their last Pool B game."

Hyderabad, March 11

Italy and Korea played out a 1-1 draw in their Pool A encounter at the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026 Hyderabad, Telangana at the G. M. C. Balayogi Hockey Ground on Wednesday evening. Federica Carta gave Italy the early lead, while Jiyun Choi equalised for Korea.

England secured their third consecutive victory in a Pool A match at the G. M. C. Balayogi Hockey Ground (Gachibowli Hockey Complex) on Wednesday afternoon.

Grace Balsdon (20') and Holly Hunt (48') were the goal scorers for England.

Later in the day, Uruguay will take on Scotland, before India meet Wales in the final match of the day.

The Indian Women's Hockey Team Will look to seal semis berth against Wales in their last Pool B game. With a Semi-Final berth at stake, India leads the points table with four points and an impressive goal difference.

The top two teams from the pool will advance. India will qualify for the semi-finals if they win or draw against Wales. If India loses, they will remain with four points, and their qualification will then depend on the result of the Scotland versus Uruguay match. In that case, their spot might come down to goal difference.

The Indian Women's Hockey Team has had a commendable run so far. They started the tournament with a convincing 4-0 victory over Uruguay on March 8, and yesterday, they narrowly missed winning after a 2-2 draw against Scotland.

Young forward Sunelita Toppo has been a standout, scoring in both games. Attackers Lalremsiami, Navneet Kaur, and Rutuja Dadaso Pisal have also performed well, registering goals and creating numerous scoring chances.

The defense at the back remains solid, with goalkeeper Bichu Devi making vital saves repeatedly. Playing in front of a lively home crowd in Hyderabad has also provided the hosts with a significant boost of energy.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
A draw against Scotland was a bit disappointing, but the team is still in a strong position. The defense and Bichu Devi have been rocks. Just need to convert more chances upfront. All the best for the Wales match!
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David E
Interesting results in Pool A. England looks very strong topping the group. The Italy-Korea draw shows how competitive these qualifiers are. Good hosting by Hyderabad!
R
Rohit P
We should have beaten Scotland. Too many missed opportunities. The coaching staff needs to work on finishing before the semis. That said, the team spirit is good and playing at home is a big advantage. Jai Hind!
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Anjali F
So proud of our women! They are fighting hard. Navneet Kaur's experience is showing. Let's pack the stadium and cheer them to victory against Wales. Chak De India!
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Michael C
The qualifiers are producing some exciting hockey. England seems to be the team to beat. Looking forward to the India-Wales match to see if the hosts can secure top spot.

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