India beat Korea 3-1 to continue winning run at Women's U18 Asia Cup 2026
New Delhi, May 31
The Indian U18 Women's Hockey Team registered a convincing 3-1 victory over Korea in their second Pool A match of the U18 Asia Cup 2026 in Kakamigahara, Japan, on Sunday.
Riding on goals from Nousheen Naz, Shruti Kumari, and Kiran Ekka, India maintained their winning momentum in the tournament following their opening-day triumph over Malaysia.
India made a bright start and earned a penalty stroke in the opening quarter. Nousheen (4') stepped up and calmly converted the opportunity to hand India an early 1-0 lead, according to a press release.
The Indian side continued to dominate possession and doubled their advantage in the second quarter. In the 21st minute, Shruti found the back of the net with a well-taken field goal, giving India a comfortable 2-0 cushion heading into the halftime break.
Korea attempted a comeback after the break and reduced the deficit in the third quarter when Gyeongmin Ryu scored in the 41st minute to make it 2-1.
However, India restored their two-goal advantage soon after. Kiran Ekka, who was also named Player of the Match, successfully converted a penalty corner in the 43rd minute, extending India's lead to 3-1 and putting the contest firmly under their control.
India remained disciplined in the final quarter, denying Korea any further scoring opportunities to seal an important victory. The Indian team earned four penalty corners and one penalty stroke during the match, while Korea won two penalty corners.
Having won their opening two matches against Malaysia and Korea, India now sit atop the Pool A standings with six points and will look to maintain their unbeaten run when they face Singapore in their final Pool A fixture on June 2.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Great to see Indian women's hockey on the rise after the Olympic success. The U18 team looks promising – strong start with two wins. Hope they keep the momentum going and bring home the title! 🏑
What a clinical performance! The early penalty stroke by Nousheen set the tone, and Shruti's field goal was beautifully executed. Korea tried to mount a comeback but our girls held their nerve. Disciplined defending in the final quarter was key. Well done, team India! 🙌
Impressive performance! India's U18 team seems to have good tactical discipline. Four penalty corners and one stroke is a sign of sustained pressure. Singapore should be worried. Go girls! 🏅
Women's hockey in India is really coming of age. Remember when we used to just participate? Now we're consistently beating Asian powerhouses like Korea. The grassroots investment is paying off. Hope these girls go on to represent at the senior level soon! ✨
Strong start for India in the tournament. Two wins from two matches is exactly what you want. The only concern is giving away a goal in the third quarter – Korea could have equalized if not for that quick response from Kiran Ekka. Need to stay focused for 60 minutes against Singapore. Still, well played! 👏
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