India Women Open Hockey World Cup Campaign with Hard-Fought 2-2 Draw Against China

India began their FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against Olympic silver medallists China at the Wagner Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen on Sunday, August 16.

India made a bright start and took the lead in the eighth minute. Neha’s pass from a free hit found Navneet, who produced a superb first-time finish to put India ahead. China responded in the 15th minute when Zhang Ying converted a penalty stroke after Shilpi Dabas was penalised inside the circle, bringing the score level at 1-1.

India regained the lead in the 26th minute through Deepika. After winning a penalty corner with a strong run down the right flank, Deepika’s drag-flick deflected off a Chinese defender and went into the net. The goal was confirmed after a video referral, giving India a 2-1 advantage at half-time.

China increased the pressure after the break and eventually equalised in the 39th minute. Following a penalty corner, Ma Ning unleashed a powerful drag-flick that beat Savita to make it 2-2.

The final quarter saw both teams battle for the winning goal. India created opportunities through Navneet and Lalremsiami, while Bichu Devi Kharibam made crucial saves to keep China from taking the lead. Despite late pressure from both sides, neither team could find a decisive goal, and the match ended in a 2-2 draw. India secured a valuable point against the Olympic silver medallists.

India will next face South Africa on August 18 before taking on England in their final Pool match on August 20.