Indian women qualify for World Cup 2018 after clinching “Asia Cup”
India won the Asia Cup only to secure qualification in the next year’s hockey World Cup. It was Goalkeeper, Savita who made a spectacular save in the tense shootout over China in the final here today.
It was a full-on tensed match, when the team captain, Rani scored the final goal and goalkeeper Savita foiled all attempts made by the rival team to ensure a 5-4 win.
Captain Rani scored a couple of goals, while players Lilima Minz, Monica and Navjot scored a goal each in the shootout.
India failed to qualify for the last World Cup, finishing ninth in 2010.
India last won 1-0 by beating Japan in the Asia Cup trophy only in the year 2004.
Indian team definitely showed great skills to steer past Chinese defenders, but Chinese stayed disciplined all through in their defense to deny Indians any opportunity to score through a penalty corner.
Last minutes of the match were however tensed, as both teams were on par with each other, not giving any scope to the other to stay in control. Overall a very tensed but good match with India clinching the Cup.
Savita was awarded the best goalkeeper of the Tournament. We also recollect that our Men’s hockey team had also emerged as Asia Cup Champions earlier this year.
