India breach the Korean wall to storm into the Asian Games women’s hockey final, setting up a gold medal clash with China

Indian women’s ice hockey team at the Asian Games The Indian women’s hockey team secured a medal at the 2026 Asian Games after defeating South Korea 2-0 in the semi-finals on Wednesday. The win secured India at least a silver medal, but they will now aim for gold when they face defending champions China in the final on October 2.China reached the final after defeating Japan 4-2 on penalties. India will now take on China for the gold medal, with the winner also securing direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.India were dominant for long periods against South Korea but struggled to convert their chances, particularly from penalty corners in the first two quarters at the Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium.South Korea parked the bus while India kept the pressure high and lurked around the opposition D. However, neither team could score in the first two quarters, raising the possibility of another semi-final decided by a penalty shootout.India finally broke the deadlock in the 44th minute from a penalty corner. Deepika played the ball to Ishika who completed the move to give India the lead.India doubled their lead three minutes later. Salima Tete picked up the loose ball and carried it into the circle before passing to the centre. The ball bounced off the stick of the South Korean defender and rolled into the goal, with the Indian captain claiming the goal.The win gives India a chance to win its first women’s hockey gold at the Asian Games since 1982.