China has officially secured its place in the 2026 Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup by winning the 2025 Women’s Asia Cup in Hangzhou. With a standout performance in the final and a perfect run through the group and Super 4 stages, The host nation delivered a flawless tournament campaign, crowned with a 4-1 win over India in the final, marking their first Asia Cup triumph since 2009.This victory not only brought China their first Asia Cup title since 2009 but also guaranteed them a ticket to the World Cup in Belgium and Netherlands (August 14–30, 2026).
The tournament was hosted in Hangzhou, China, from September 5 to 14, 2025.The tournament featured eight of Asia’s strongest teams. After the preliminary pool stage, top teams advanced to Super 4s (essentially another group phase for top four) before the final. China went undefeated throughout topping their pool with solid wins and continued dominance with consistent victories at the Super 4s.
At Group stage with a strong start China began their campaign with confidence and precision. Facing tough regional opponents, they topped their group with undefeated performances, showed tactical strength with a solid defensive setup and effective counterattacks and Built momentum heading into the Super 4s stage. In the Super 4s, China continued their winning streak, proving too strong for their opponents. The team’s consistency and attacking flair ensured they entered the final as firm favorites. Their balance between youth and experience gave them the edge in crucial moments.
China’s defensive strength and consistent performance through the group and Super 4s phases underscore their tactical discipline. From the start of the tournament, Ou Zixia’s leadership was evidentHer passing, vision, and work ethic inspired younger teammates.She kept her team composed under pressure, helping them remain unbeaten in the group stage.As captain, she managed the team’s focus, ensuring they stayed on track for the final. Li Hong The turning point scorer Scored the go-ahead goal, vital in shifting momentum in China’s favor and Zou Meirong & Zhong Jiaqi added goals to seal the victory that Secured the win with late goals.
In the Final India struck first via Navneet Kaur during the opening minute, but China’s captain Ou Zixia equalized in the 21st minute.In the second half, Li Hong put China ahead (41st minute), followed by goals from Zou Meirong and Zhong Jiaqi.
Winning the Asia Cup guarantees China a ticket to the 2026 FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup.Early qualification allows China more time to prepare—train, select squad, plan friendlies, etc.The 2026 Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup will feature the world’s best teams, including hosts Belgium and Netherlands, as well as other continental champions like Germany, Argentina, Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand.
China’s Asia Cup 2025 victory in Hangzhou was more than just a trophy—it was a statement. With a 4-1 demolition of India in the final, China secured both continental glory and a spot at the 2026 Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup. As preparations begin, fans can expect the team to bring speed, precision, and renewed determination to Belgium and Netherlands in August 2026.
