New Delhi: India failed to defend their crown at the fifth women’s Asian Champions Trophy after losing 0-1 to hosts South Korea in the final in Donghae City on Sunday. Youngsil Lee scored the winner in the 24th minute.
India’s defence was tested in the early stages as South Korea controlled the ball in midfield and put pressure.
India defended well and tried to surprise the hosts on the break.
Korea had better chances in the first period but failed to convert their chances. They dominated the second quarter too, winning three penalty corners in a span of two minutes but goalkeeper Savita denied them.
But the home team caught the Indian defenders napping on a swift counter attack. Mi Hyun Park made a darting run towards the baseline on the right flank and passed the ball across the Indian goal, which was deflected into the net by Lee.
India struggled to build momentum after going behind as the hosts preserved their one goal lead at the half-time break.
The onus was on India to find the equaliser but they were denied any space inside Korea’s striking circle.
The hosts sat back in their own half for rest of the match, content to keep their lead intact.
