Hat-Trick done! India edge China to clinch 3rd consecutive Women's Hockey Junior Asia Cup
(Courtesy : Asian Hockey Federation)
Sanika Chandrakant Mane’s solitary goal made the difference
India were crowned champions of the Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup 2026 after edging hosts China 1-0 in a tense final on Sunday.
Sanika Chandrakant Mane’s 17th-minute strike was enough for the defending champions to retain their title and complete a hat-trick of continental crowns. The win also sealed India’s qualification for the FIH Junior Women’s World Cup.
To mark the triumph, Hockey India (HI) announced a cash reward of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for each support staff member.
A cagey start to the final
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The final began on a crafty note, with both teams showing signs of nervousness in the early exchanges. China dominated possession and put India under early pressure, but the visitors stayed composed to see out the opening exchanges. Despite their territorial edge, the hosts failed to create a clear opening as India’s defence held firm to end the first quarter goalless.
India soon made their opportunity count. A couple of minutes into the second quarter, Sanika displayed excellent awareness and intelligent off-the-ball movement to sneak in behind a Chinese defender, positioning herself just five metres from the goal. She got her stick to a long slap-push played into the Chinese circle and produced a deft deflection that beat goalkeeper Xu Mengjiao to give India the lead.
Related: Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup 2026 – Supriya’s hat-trick sends India into final
China came closest to scoring when they earned the encounter’s only penalty corner. However, their direct attempt was ruled out as the ball entered the goal above the permitted backboard height, much to the relief of the Indian contingent and the disappointment of the home crowd.
India’s best chance to double the lead came two minutes before half-time when captain Khaidem Shileima Chanu saw her goal-bound effort brilliantly saved by the Chinese keeper. The Indians carried their 1-0 advantage into half-time, setting up an intriguing second half.
China fightback against robust Indian defence
China resumed with renewed intent and came close to finding an equaliser seven minutes into the third quarter. A well-worked move saw a Chinese attacker overlap from the baseline before sending a dangerous minus pass into the area in front of goal. However, India’s defence read the situation perfectly and intercepted the pass before it could reach its intended target.
The final quarter ultimately became a showcase of India’s defensive resilience. The defending champions remained disciplined, compact and alert around their circle, building a fortress that China struggled to penetrate. India held firm through the closing stages to secure a memorable 1-0 victory and lift the trophy.
India finished the tournament unbeaten. After topping the Elite Pool with three wins and a draw, they defeated South Korea 5-1 in the semi-finals before overcoming China 1-0 in the final to successfully defend their title and become three-time champions.
Who did India beat to win the Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup 2026?
India beat China 1-0 to win the Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup 2026.
How many times have India won the Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup?
India have won the Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup on three occasions — 2023, 2024 and 2026.
Who led India women at the Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup 2026?
Khaidem Shileima Chanu led India women at the Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup 2026.
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