The quest for mission Asia gets underway as giant teams set to take off at the field hockey tournament, with pulsating moments to unfold.
Hosts India need to play a consistent game right through to defend the title as they face a tough challenge from the Asian counterparts including strong South Korea, traditional rival Pakistan and dark horse China.
With five encounters on the opening day, India take on fast-improving China, as both teams are placed in Pool-B.
Since the new coach Joaquim Carvalho took over, India landed two podium finishes, this year. It’s need of the hour for India to adopt a quick winning habit as it battles for a spot in the Olympics. Until and unless a venerable performance is achieved, the mood of despair will continue to haunt.
The Korean coach for the Chinese team, Kim Sang Ryul, is fully convinced that no team in the world can easily topple his outfit. His assertion stems from the silver gained at Doha Asian Games and an impressive recent Test event at Beijing.
Two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals. The final is scheduled for September 9.
Via: Dailytimes
