India's women's hockey team overcame South Korea's stubborn defense to win 2-0 in the Asian Games semifinals and set up a final clash against China.
The Indian women's hockey team produced a dominant performance to beat South Korea 2-0 at the Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium on Wednesday, breaking down a resolute defense to reach the Asian Games final.
India took early control of the contest, earning the first of their 10 penalty corners in the fourth minute, though Deepika's shot was saved. For much of the match, South Korea sat deep in their own half with minimal attacking intent, leaving the contest locked in a stalemate through the end of the third quarter.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 44th minute when Ishika converted a pass off India's eighth penalty corner with a reverse shot. Four minutes later, Salima Tete doubled the lead when her cross from the right deflected off a defender's stick and crossed the goal line.
South Korea responded by pushing forward late in the match and earned three consecutive penalty corners, but were unable to beat Indian goalkeeper Savita Punia.
Having settled for bronze at the last Asian Games following a semifinal defeat to China, India will face the defending champions in Friday's final. China advanced after defeating Japan 4-2 in a shootout following a goalless regulation time. A victory in the final will also earn India a qualification spot for the LA Olympics.
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Sport. Photo courtesy The Hindu Sport.