FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 : The Indian women’s hockey team has booked their place in the final of the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup Qualifier 2026 with a thrilling 1-0 victory over Italy in the semifinals. The decisive match was closely contested, and India will now face England in the title clash.
Manisha Chauhan’s Decisive Goal
The only goal of the match came from Manisha Chauhan in the 40th minute. Her precise drag-flick from a penalty corner proved to be the game-winner, giving India a lead that they held until the final whistle.
Intense First Quarter
The first quarter saw both teams battling fiercely for midfield control. India started with a few strong circle penetrations, creating early pressure, while Italy gradually responded with attacking opportunities of their own. The quarter set the tone for a highly competitive match.
India Gains Momentum in Second Quarter
During the second quarter, India began asserting dominance. The team strategically utilized the flanks to launch continuous attacks. In the 18th minute, India earned their first penalty corner, but Italy’s goalkeeper Lucia Ines Caruso made a brilliant save against Navneet Kaur.
India earned two more penalty corners in the 27th and 29th minutes but could not convert them into goals.
Goalkeeping Heroics by Bichu Devi
The second half began with Italy pushing hard for an equalizer. Player Emilia Munitis came close to scoring, but India’s goalkeeper Bichu Devi Kharibam made a crucial save to keep her team in the lead.In the 40th minute, India earned another penalty corner, which Manisha Chauhan converted beautifully, putting India ahead 1-0.
Closing Moments and Defense Holds Strong
In the final quarter, India earned two additional penalty corners but was unable to extend their lead. Italy continued to press and earned a penalty corner in the 59th minute, but India’s defense successfully blocked all attempts, securing the win.
Looking Ahead: Final Against England
With this victory, the Indian women’s hockey team will face England in the final of the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup Qualifier 2026. The team will aim to cap off their tournament with a title-winning performance.