India crush Bangladesh 13-1 in Women's Junior Hockey Asia Cup opener

NEW DELHI: Mumtaz Khan emerged as the star performer, scoring four goals, while Kanika Siwach and Deepika each scored a hat-trick as the defending champions, India, registered a resounding 13-1 victory over Bangladesh in their opening match of the Women's Junior Asia Cup hockey tournament on Sunday.
The match showcased the stark contrast in quality between the two teams, with India dominating from the outset. They took an early lead through Deepika's penalty corner conversion in the 7th minute and never looked back.
Manisha and Kanika added to the tally, giving India a comfortable 3-1 lead at the end of the first quarter.
The second and third quarters saw India extend their lead further, with Deepika, Mumtaz, Beauty Dung Dung, and Sakshi Rana finding the back of the net. Bangladesh's lone goal came from Orpita Pal in the 12th minute.

The final quarter witnessed Kanika scoring two quick goals to complete her hat-trick, while Mumtaz and Deepika also added to their personal tallies. India's dominance was evident from the number of penalty corners they earned (12) compared to Bangladesh's solitary one.
Despite the lopsided scoreline, Bangladesh's goalkeeper, Mohua, put up a valiant effort, denying India on several occasions.
India's comprehensive victory not only sets the tone for their title defence but also keeps them on track to secure direct qualification for the 2024 Junior World Cup in Santiago, Chile, which will be awarded to the four semifinalists.
With their sights set on retaining the championship and securing a World Cup berth, India will look to carry forward this momentum when they face Malaysia in their next group match on Monday.