Indian hockey team lost 2-4 to China in Muscat.

The Indian women’s hockey team settled for silver at the FIH Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship held in Muscat, Oman. The Indian team lost 2-4 to China but secured a berth for the FIH Youth Hockey5s World Cup. Indian team scored 8-1 win over Kazakhstan to set up a title clash with China.

China dominated the final taking the lead through Tongtong Lu in the opening minute. Kexin Tang doubled China’s advantage in the fifth minute before Jiaxin Guo made it 3-0 a minute later. India responded after the break as Nousheen Naz found the back of the net in the 13th minute to reduce the deficit.

However, Chen Ge restored China’s three-goal lead in the 19th minute. Pushpa Manjhi scored in the 20th minute to give India hope.

China’s victory in the Hockey5s also emphasizes that the Asian sporting giant is strengthening its foundation. On the other hand the Indian hockey federation should also invest heavily in grassroots development.

Hockey India announced a cash prize of ₹1 lakh for each of the silver winning team members.

EOM