India, Sept. 13 -- The Indian women's hockey team needed a win against Japan to confirm their berth in the Asia Cup final. But having only managed a 1-1 draw in their Super 4s game against the defending champions, Salima Tete and Co waited with bated breath, hoping for a Chinese win, or at least a draw, against South Korea in the final Super 4s clash later to take them into the summit clash.

Hosts China, who had already qualified for the final, didn't falter as they beat world No.16 South Korea 1-0 to set up Sunday's final against India. The winners will book a direct spot in the 2026 World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium.

China, the Paris Olympics silver medallists, topped the Super 4s with nine points from three matches, world No.9...