NEW DELHI: The Indian women’s hockey team started their campaign at the Women’s Asian Hockey 5s World Cup Qualifier with a 7-2 win against Malaysia on Friday.
India made an attacking start to their first match with fast-paced set-play, scoring in the third minute through captain Navjot Kaur (3’). India’s lead was doubled a minute later when Akshata Dhekale (4’) scored a field goal. Wan Wan’s (7’) strike gave Malaysia a goal back.
Malaysia equalised four minutes before halftime thanks to Aziz Zafirah’s (11’) flawless conversion of the challenge goal. However, India quickly counterattacked and took the lead through Monika Dipi Toppo (12’). At the end of the first half, India were leading Malaysia by 3-2.
A quick start to the second half saw India score their fourth goal in the 17th minute through Mariana Kujur, who made a run from the right flank, beating Malaysian defenders to find the back of the net. Monika was on the scoresheet once again as found the back of the net and extended India’s lead to 5-2. In the 28th minute, Mahima Choudhary made it 6-2 for India. With two minutes remaining, Navjot found the back of the net for the second time. The game ended with the Indian women’s hockey team winning 7-2.
India will next take on Japan on Saturday. Agencies
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