Women's FIH Nations Cup 2022: Indian team won the second match in a row, beat Japan and topped the group

The Indian women's hockey team continues to perform well in the ongoing Women's FIH Nations Cup 2022 in Spain. After defeating Chile 3-1 in the first match, the Indian women's team went to face Japan in the second match, where it won the second consecutive victory by defeating the Japanese hockey team 2-1.

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In addition, with this victory, the Indian women's hockey team has secured the first position in Pool B. India now just need to avoid defeat against world No. 20 South Africa in their final pool fixture on Wednesday for a place in the semi-finals.

Meanwhile, Salima Tete scored her first international goal in the 39th minute to give the Indian team the lead, after which no more goals came till half time. Tete with her brisk pace and clever stickwork bamboozled the Japanese backline inside the D and gave India an early lead.The Japanese team made several attempts but failed to penetrate India's defence. The Indian team's one-goal lead remained intact till the half-time.

In the third quarter for the Indian team, Beauty Dungdung made India's lead 2-0. She scored a beautiful field goal and strengthened the claim of the team's victory. However, in the third minute of the third quarter, Japan's Rui Takashima broke through the Indian defense. She opened the team's account and made the match score 2-1.

However, Japan's team is in second place after one win and one loss in two matches. India now has to play South Africa in the next group match on 14th December. While Spain topped Pool A by winning both the matches while Ireland are in second place. Italy and Korea are third and fourth after one loss and one draw respectively.

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The top two teams from each of the two groups will qualify for the semi-finals. The eventual winner of the Women's FIH Nations Cup 2022 will be promoted to the FIH Pro League's 2023-24 season.