India women’s team qualifies for Hockey World Cup 2026

India women’s team has qualified for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup after defeating Italy 1–0 in the semi-final of the qualifiers in Hyderabad on Friday. Manisha Chauhan, in the third quarter, converted a penalty corner in the 40th minute, driving the ball straight through the centre to beat the Italian defence and keeper. In a game where both teams showed extreme defensive discipline, Manisha’s moment of brilliance won India the contest.

Notably, India’s attack became more prominent in the second quarter of the match. The hosts used width to push Italy back and eventually earned their first penalty corner in the 18th minute. Navneet Kaur took the attempt, but Italian goalkeeper Lucia Ines Caruso reacted well



to keep the effort out.

Another opportunity came in the 27th minute when India tried a variation from a penalty corner. The ball was worked back to Salima Tete, whose shot looked goal-bound before an Italian defender made a goal-line clearance. India earned yet another penalty corner shortly after, though Navneet’s effort failed to find the target.

Italy threatened early after the break. Emilia Munitis broke into the circle with a clear sight of goal, but goalkeeper Bichu Devi Kharibam rushed off her line and made an important save to deny the chance. Soon after, India finally broke through. From another penalty corner, Manisha Chauhan struck firmly down the middle to put the home side ahead.