November 20, 2024: The India Women’s Hockey Team secured their third Women's Asian Champions Trophy title with a hard-earned 1-0 victory over China in a thrilling final at the Rajgir Hockey Stadium in Bihar. Deepika’s crucial goal in the third quarter proved to be the match-winner, as India sealed back-to-back titles in front of a jubilant home crowd.

The final was a tightly contested affair, with both teams showing immense determination and skill. India began the match on the front foot, pressing aggressively from the start. However, China quickly adjusted to the high tempo of the game, countering with equal vigour. The encounter saw both teams exchanging rapid attacks, but the breakthrough came midway through the third quarter. Deepika’s precise strike from a penalty corner found the back of the net, giving India a 1-0 lead.

Despite missing a penalty stroke later in the match, Deepika's earlier goal proved to be enough as India’s defense held strong, denying China any clear-cut chances to equalize. China's last-ditch efforts, including a penalty corner, were thwarted by India’s resolute defense, which remained unyielding throughout the game.

This victory not only gave India their third Asian Champions Trophy title but also equaled South Korea’s record of three titles, making India one of the most successful teams in the history of the tournament. The triumph is particularly significant, as it follows a similarly dominant performance by the India Men's Hockey Team, who also defended their title by defeating China in their final.

India’s momentum coming into the final was undeniable, having comfortably defeated Japan 2-0 in the semi-finals. On the other side, China secured their final spot with a 3-1 win over Malaysia, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown.

The win is a huge boost for Indian hockey, marking a historic achievement in women's sport and reinforcing the growing popularity and development of the game in the country.