India vs China Hockey 2026: India Hold China to 2-2 Draw

India opened their Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign with a competitive 2-2 draw against Olympic silver medallists China at Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen.

India Take the Lead Twice Against China

India started with attacking intent and were rewarded in the eighth minute. Navneet Kaur found the net to give India a 1-0 advantage.

China responded before the end of the first quarter when Ying Zhang converted a penalty stroke in the 15th minute.

India regained the lead through Deepika, who produced an excellent drag-flick from a penalty corner in the 25th minute to make it 2-1.

China Fight Back Again

China increased the pressure after the interval and eventually found another equaliser in the 39th minute. Ma Ning scored from a penalty corner to make it 2-2.

India goalkeeper Savita Punia played an important role during China’s sustained pressure, making several crucial saves to keep her team in the contest.

Neither side could produce a winning goal in the final quarter, leaving India and China with one point each.

India’s Next Match Against South Africa

India will now turn their attention to their second Pool D match against South Africa on Tuesday.

England currently lead the pool after beating South Africa 4-0, while South Africa sit at the bottom after their opening defeat. India will be looking for a victory in their next game to strengthen their position in the pool.