India made a powerful start to their women’s Asia Cup hockey campaign by defeating Thailand 11-0 in the opening Pool B clash on Friday. The team displayed dominance from the beginning, leaving little chance for their opponents to respond.
Forward Udita Duhan and striker Beauty Dung Dung both netted two goals each, setting the tone for India’s victory. Udita scored in the 30th and 52nd minutes through penalty corners, while Dung Dung added her strikes in the 45th and 54th minutes. Early in the game, Mumtaz Khan (7th minute) and Sangita Kumari (10th minute) gave India the edge, followed by goals from Navneet Kaur (16th) and Lalremsiami (18th). Later, Thoudam Suman Devi (49th), Sharmila Devi (57th), and Rutaja Dadaso Pisal (60th) completed the tally.
Ranked ninth in the world, India dominated the 30th-ranked Thai side, entering half-time with a comfortable 5-0 lead. The Asia Cup has eight participating teams, with the top two from each pool advancing to the Super 4s stage. The best two in Super 4s will battle in the final on September 14.
Despite missing experienced goalkeeper Savita Punia and drag-flicker Deepika due to injuries, India showcased depth and attacking flair. The stakes are high, as the tournament champions will secure a direct berth in the 2026 Women’s World Cup, to be jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands.
India will next face Japan on Saturday before playing their last pool game against Singapore on September 8. With such a strong start, the team has signaled its intent to go all the way in the competition.
