Image Source: NDTV Sports
The Indian women’s hockey team launched their Women’s Asia Cup 2025 campaign with a thunderous statement, dismantling Thailand 11-0 in their Pool B opener at the Gongshu Canal Sports Park in Hangzhou, China. With eight different players contributing to the scoreboard, India showcased a blend of attacking flair, tactical precision, and set-piece mastery that left their opponents overwhelmed from the first whistle.
This emphatic win not only secures three crucial points but also gives India a commanding goal difference advantage as they prepare for tougher fixtures ahead, including a key clash against Japan.
Early Dominance Sets The Tone
India wasted no time asserting control, scoring twice within the first ten minutes:
- Mumtaz Khan opened the scoring in the 7th minute with a crisp field goal
- Sangita Kumari doubled the lead in the 10th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse
The first quarter ended with India firmly in command, pressing high and maintaining possession deep in Thailand’s half.
Second Quarter Surge Builds Momentum
India’s attacking intensity only grew stronger in the second quarter:
- Navneet Kaur and Lalremsiami struck in quick succession in the 16th and 18th minutes
- Udita converted a penalty corner in the 30th minute, giving India a 5-0 cushion at halftime
Thailand struggled to contain India’s midfield transitions and failed to register a single shot on goal during the first half.
Third Quarter: Set-Piece Precision On Display
India’s penalty corner routines came alive in the third quarter, with strategic variations and sharp execution:
- Beauty Dung Dung scored her first goal in the 45th minute from a deflected penalty corner
- India won four penalty corners in this quarter alone, keeping Thailand pinned inside their circle
Coach Harendra Singh’s emphasis on process over results was evident in the team’s structured approach and creative set-piece play.
Final Quarter Turns Into A Goal Fest
The last 15 minutes saw India unleash a flurry of goals, sealing the match in style:
- Mumtaz Khan netted her second in the 49th minute
- Udita added another drag-flick goal in the 52nd minute
- Beauty Dung Dung scored again in the 54th minute
- Sharmila Devi and Rutuja Dadaso Pisal rounded off the scoring in the 57th and 60th minutes respectively
India’s relentless pressure and fluid passing left Thailand chasing shadows, as the scoreboard ticked into double digits.
Star Performers And Tactical Notes
Several players stood out in India’s dominant display:
- Mumtaz Khan was named Player of the Match for her brace and attacking presence
- Udita, returning to the squad, stepped up as the primary drag-flicker, scoring twice and assisting another
- Beauty Dung Dung’s positioning and finishing earned her two goals, both from penalty corner variations
India’s ability to rotate players and maintain intensity across all four quarters was a testament to their fitness and depth.
What’s Next For Team India
India will face Japan in their second Pool B fixture on Saturday, September 6 at 4:30 PM IST. Japan, the defending champions, are expected to pose a sterner test. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the Super 4s stage, with the winner earning a direct berth to the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.
India, ranked ninth in the world, are aiming to reclaim the Asia Cup title they last won in 2017. With Deepika sidelined due to injury, the team’s adaptability and bench strength will be crucial in the upcoming matches.
Conclusion: A Statement Of Intent
India’s 11-0 win over Thailand was more than just a scoreline—it was a declaration of intent. From open play brilliance to penalty corner mastery, the Women in Blue have set the tone for their Asia Cup journey. As the tournament progresses, consistency and composure will be key to converting this explosive start into championship glory.
Sources: Khel Now, The Hans India, MyKhel, India TV News, Indian Express, Olympics.com, Hockey India
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