Title holders India stunned 0-2 by Japan

Muscat, Jan 23: Defending champions India were stunned 0-2 by reigning Asian Games gold-medallists Japan in their second Pool A match of the Women’s Asia Cup hockey tournament here on Sunday. Japan scored through Naga Yuri (2nd minute) and Saki Tanaka (42nd minute) to stun the Indians. A slow start from the Indians cost them dearly as Japan took the lead against the run of play in the second minute through Nagai Yuri. Yuri took full advantage of a sleepy Indian defence to slap home from top of the circle after taking hold of a loose ball. Japan earned their first penalty corner in the second quarter but the Indians defended well. Japan eventually went into the half time break leading 1-0. The Indians continued to dominate the proceedings after the change of ends but failed to create any real scoring opportunity. Japan surprised India in the 42nd when Tanakana doubled the lead. (PTI)