India's Women's Hockey Team Secures Victory in 4 Nations Tournament Opener

India, 4 January 2026 — The Indian women's hockey team commenced their campaign in the 4 Nations Tournament with a decisive victory against China, winning 3-1 in their opening match in New Zealand. The match took place on Tuesday, with India showcasing a strong performance led by captain Savita Punia and forward Vandana Katariya, who scored two of the three goals.

The 4 Nations Tournament, featuring host New Zealand, China, and South Korea, serves as crucial preparation for the Indian team ahead of the Asian Games. This win boosts India's morale as they aim to refine their strategies and combinations in international competition.

India's defense was solid throughout the game, restricting China's scoring opportunities. The victory was sealed by a late goal from midfielder Neha Goyal, ensuring a comfortable lead. Coach Janneke Schopman expressed satisfaction with the team's performance but emphasized the need for continuous improvement.

The tournament is ongoing, with India set to face South Korea next. The team is focusing on maintaining momentum and addressing areas of improvement identified in their opening match. The event is a key platform for the Indian squad to gain experience against top Asian teams.

With the Asian Games on the horizon, the Indian team is using the 4 Nations Tournament to assess their competitive readiness and make necessary tactical adjustments. The team's performance is closely watched as they are considered strong contenders in upcoming international competitions.