Hangzhou, China – China's women's field hockey team kicked off the Super 4s stage at the Women's Asia Hockey Cup with a confident 2-0 win over Japan on Wednesday, extending their unbeaten run in the continental showdown.
In a fresh round-robin format replacing traditional knockouts, the top two sides from each initial group face off in a single pool. The leading duo then advance directly to the final, ratcheting up the stakes from the first whistle.
China broke through in the 13th minute when Liu Chencheng threaded a perfect pass to Zou Meirong. Zou, now on eight goals for the tournament, slotted home with clinical precision to light up the home crowd.
Dominant in possession and dangerous in attack, the hosts piled on pressure. Their fifth penalty corner finally paid dividends when Zhang Ying drove a drag-flick to Liu Chencheng, who finished with composure to double the advantage.
Despite multiple short-corner chances in the final minutes, Japan couldn't convert, leaving the scoreline at 2-0. China's tactical discipline and sharp finishing underline their title credentials.
Next up, China will face India, while Japan takes on South Korea later on Thursday as the Super 4s battle heats up.
Reference(s):
China defeat Japan 2-0 in Super 4s opener at Women's Asia Hockey Cup
cgtn.com
