India beat Japan to storm into FIH Nations Cup semifinals, move closer to Pro League spot

NEW DELHI: The Indian women's hockey team sealed a place in the semifinals of the FIH Nations Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Japan on Tuesday, registering their second successive win in Pool A and moving a step closer to qualification for next year's FIH Pro League.Captain Salima Tete and forward Lalremsiami scored crucial goals as India collected six points from two matches to confirm their berth in the last four.The contest also marked a special milestone for midfielder Jyoti, who made her 100th senior international appearance.

Salima and Lalremsiami shine in crucial win

The first half proved to be a tightly fought affair, with both sides creating chances but failing to break the deadlock.India eventually found the breakthrough in the 33rd minute through skipper Salima Tete.

A well-worked penalty-corner variation saw Nikki Pradhan redirect Navneet Kaur's strike into the path of Salima, who calmly slotted home to put India ahead.Japan, however, responded swiftly. Just two minutes later, Ai Hiramitsu converted from a penalty corner to bring her side back into the contest.With the match finely balanced heading into the final quarter, India produced the decisive moment in the 49th minute.

Veteran Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam delivered a precise pass from the edge of the circle and Lalremsiami expertly deflected the ball into the net to restore India's lead.The Indian defence then stood firm against a late Japanese surge to secure a valuable victory.India will now face Uruguay in their final Pool A fixture on Thursday, while Japan and the United States will battle for the remaining semifinal spot from the group.The tournament serves as a qualifier for the 2027 FIH Pro League, and India's impressive start has strengthened their hopes of returning to the elite competition.