Lalremsiami's goal helps India women's hockey beat China, secure Asian Games gold and Olympic berth

India's women's hockey team secured the gold medal at the Asian Games 2026 after defeating China 1-0 in the final on Friday. A goal by Lalremsiami in the 10th minute proved decisive in the victory. The win marks India's first Asian Games gold in women's hockey after 44 years, ending a long drought in the sport.

The match remained tightly contested throughout, with India maintaining its one-goal lead through the first quarter, halftime, and third quarter to secure the championship. The victory came after the Indian team completed a remarkable turnaround, having faced World Cup uncertainty and a coaching change before turning its fortunes around in Japan.

The triumph also secured India's berth for the upcoming Olympic Games. This represents a significant achievement for the team, particularly after India had missed qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics. The women's gold medal comes as both Indian men's and women's hockey teams made the finals at a single Asian Games edition for the first time in 28 years.