After a goalless first half, India broke the deadlock through Ishika Chaudhary in the 44th minute before captain Salima Tete doubled the advantage four minutes later.
The victory sets up a gold-medal clash against defending champions China on Friday, October 2. India are now one win away from securing their second Asian Games women’s hockey gold, following their triumph at the 1982 New Delhi Games. citeturn542766search0turn542766search2
India find breakthrough after frustrating first half
India dominated possession and created several opportunities in the opening two quarters, but South Korean goalkeeper Seoyeon Lee produced a series of saves to keep her side in the contest.
India earned multiple penalty corners but struggled to convert their chances, with South Korea’s disciplined defence ensuring the teams went into half-time level at 0–0. citeturn542766search0turn542766search2
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 44th minute. India used a variation from a penalty corner, with Deepika playing a dummy before the ball reached Ishika, who finished with a first-time push to give India the lead.
Four minutes later, Salima Tete made it 2–0 with a fine field goal. The captain made an overlapping run down the right before converting the opportunity to put India in control. citeturn542766search0
India hold firm to secure final spot
South Korea attempted to fight back and earned late penalty corners, but India’s defence stood firm to preserve the clean sheet.
The result confirmed India’s place in the final, where they will face China. The Chinese side advanced after drawing 0–0 with hosts Japan before winning 4–2 in a shoot-out.
South Korea will meet Japan in the bronze-medal match. citeturn542766search2
Match details
• India: 2 — Ishika Chaudhary 44', Salima Tete 48'
• South Korea: 0
Competition: 2026 Asian Games — Women’s hockey semi-final
Date: Wednesday, 30 September 2026
Final: India vs China — Friday, 2 October 2026. citeturn542766search0turn542766search2