Manisha’s Goal Sends India Women to FIH Hockey Qualifier Final
India’s women’s hockey team beat Italy 1-0 in the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026 semi-final at GMC Balayogi Hockey Stadium, Hyderabad, on March 13. Manisha Chauhan scored the only goal in the 40th minute, sending the hosts through to the final against England and confirming India’s place at the 2026 FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup.
Italy defended resolutely but India’s discipline held firm throughout. Goalkeeper Savita Punia was strong under pressure, keeping her side’s tournament dreams alive with crucial saves.
“Our mindset is very clear — we are not here just to qualify. We want to keep improving with every match and aim to win the tournament,” head coach Sjoerd Marijne said, per FIH. The final against England gives India the chance to lift the Qualifiers title and head into the World Cup on a wave of momentum. Final dates are yet to be officially confirmed by Hockey India.