Moqi, September 13, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India’s women’s hockey team retained the AHF Women’s Junior Asia Cup title with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over hosts China in the final on Sunday, completing a hat-trick of successive championships.
Sanika Chandrakant Mane scored the decisive goal in the 17th minute to secure the victory and help India book their place in the FIH Junior World Cup.
The final began with both teams engaged in a closely fought contest, with neither side able to break the deadlock in the opening quarter. India eventually found the breakthrough when Sanika converted in the 17th minute, giving the defending champions a 1-0 lead that they carried into half-time.
India continued to protect their narrow advantage through the third quarter, keeping China from finding an equaliser. The Indian defence remained resolute in the final quarter as well, holding firm until the final whistle to seal the title.
The triumph marked India’s third consecutive AHF Women’s Junior Asia Cup crown. The team had won the previous two editions and continued its strong run under newly appointed head coach Tim White, who took charge earlier this year following a structured training programme.
India had entered the final after a dominant campaign. They defeated Pakistan 19-0 in the quarterfinal before overcoming South Korea 5-1 in the semifinal, with drag-flick specialist Supriya playing a key role.
The Indian side remained unbeaten in the pool stage, collecting 10 points from three wins and a draw to finish top of the Elite Pool on goal difference.
Hockey India has announced cash rewards of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for every member of the support staff in recognition of the title-winning campaign.
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