FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026: India Beat Italy 1–0 To Book A Final Berth Against England

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Hyderabad, March 13: India secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Italy in the semifinal of the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026 at the GMC Balayogi Hockey Stadium on Friday. A decisive goal from Manisha Chauhan in the third quarter ensured India's place in the final, where they will face the England women's national field hockey team.

The match began with both teams contesting possession intensely in midfield. India initially looked sharper, making a few promising circle entries in the opening quarter. However, Italy soon found their rhythm and launched several attacking moves, forcing the Indian defence to stay alert.

India Creates Multiple Chances Against Tight Italian Defence

India regained control in the second quarter and began to build pressure using the flanks. The hosts increased their attacking presence and created multiple scoring opportunities.

In the 18th minute, India earned their first penalty corner of the match, but a shot from Navneet Kaur was well saved by Italian goalkeeper Lucia Ines Caruso. India came close again in the 27th minute with a cleverly worked penalty-corner variation. The ball was played back to captain Salima Tete, whose attempt was blocked on the goal line by an Italian defender.

Two minutes later, India won another penalty corner, but Navneet Kaur's effort drifted wide, leaving the scores level at halftime.

Manisha Chauhan Breaks The Deadlock

Italy started the second half with an aggressive approach and nearly took the lead when Emilia Munitis broke through the defence. However, Indian goalkeeper Bichu Devi Kharibam produced a crucial save to keep the match scoreless.

India eventually broke the deadlock in the 40th minute after winning another penalty corner. Manisha Chauhan stepped up and delivered a powerful drag-flick straight down the middle, beating the Italian defence and giving the hosts a vital lead.

Late Italian Push Denied By India

India pushed for a second goal in the final quarter and earned two early penalty corners, but Italy's defence remained resilient. The Italian side made one final push in the closing moments and won a penalty corner in the 59th minute, but India held firm to prevent the equaliser.

With the victory, India advanced to the final of the qualifiers, where they will take on England on March 14 at 7:30 PM IST.

Where To Watch The FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026?

Fans can watch matches from the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026 live on Star Sports Khel, while online streaming will be available on the JioHotstar app and website.