Lalremsiami scored the decisive goal in the 10th minute, guiding India to their second women’s hockey gold medal in the history of the Asian Games. The victory also secured India’s qualification for the women’s hockey tournament at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The goal came during Lalremsiami’s 200th senior international appearance for India. She produced a reverse-stick strike to put her side ahead, giving the team an early advantage in the contest.
India then had to withstand sustained pressure from China, who sought an equaliser throughout the match. Goalkeeper Savita Punia played a crucial role, saving a Chinese penalty stroke as India protected their narrow lead.
The Indian defence remained resolute through the remaining quarters, denying China a breakthrough and preserving the 1-0 scoreline until the final whistle.
The triumph brings to an end India’s 44-year wait for the Asian Games women’s hockey title. Their previous gold came in 1982, when the sport made its debut at the continental Games.
India had reached the final in 1998 and 2018 but finished with silver on both occasions, losing to South Korea and Japan respectively.
China, the defending champions and Paris 2024 Olympic silver medallists, had to settle for silver, while Japan claimed bronze after defeating South Korea in a shoot-out.
India’s victory in Kakamigahara marks a significant milestone for the team and confirms their place at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.