Asian Games 2026: 44 years later, India Wins Women’s Hockey Gold, Sushila Chanu and Bichu Devi Shine
India ended a 44-year wait for the Asian Games women’s hockey gold medal with a 1-0 victory over China at the Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium on October 2.
Lalremsiami scored the decisive goal in the first quarter with a powerful reverse hit after a well-built attack involving Salima Tete and Sakshi. China pushed hard for an equaliser, but India’s defence maintained the lead.
Goalkeeper Savita Punia produced a crucial one-handed save from a Chinese penalty stroke, while Navneet Kaur made an important goal-line clearance to protect India’s clean sheet.
Manipur’s Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam played a key role in midfield throughout the campaign, providing experience and stability. Rising goalkeeper Bichu Devi Kharibam also delivered a strong defensive performance, helping India keep China from scoring in the final.
The gold medal marks India’s first women’s hockey gold at the Asian Games since 1982 and also earns the team direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
