Moqi, Sept. 13 -- The Indian Junior Women's Team have been crowned champions of the AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026 after edging past hosts China 1-0 in a closely fought final on Sunday, according to a press release.

Sanika Chandrakant Mane's 17th-minute strike proved enough for the defending champions to retain their continental crown and complete a hat-trick of Women's Junior Asia Cup titles. The triumph also secured India's qualification for the FIH Junior Women's World Cup.

In recognition of the achievement, Hockey India announced prize money of Rs 3 lakh for each player and Rs 1.5 lakh for each member of the support staff.

The final began on a cagey note, with both teams showing signs of nervousness in the early exchanges. China enjoyed ...