India’s campaign in the women’s water polo event at the 11th Asian Aquatics Championships came to an end on Thursday after a 6–34 defeat to China in the quarterfinals at the Veer Savarkar Sports Complex.
Despite the heavy loss, India showed moments of spirit, with Dhruthi Karthikeya leading the effort with three goals. China, one of the continental powerhouses in water polo, asserted their dominance early and never looked back. With sharp passing, swift transitions, and clinical finishing, they stormed to a commanding lead in the first quarter and maintained relentless pressure throughout the match.
China’s attack was spearheaded by a trio of top performers Li Peiyang, Li Linyun, and Li Jianyu who each scored seven goals, underlining their side’s superior offensive structure. Han Wen added six goals, while Wang Xin struck three. Shi Jingjiarong, Wang Xuan, and Liu Yan also found the net to complete the scoring for the defending champions. For India, Dhruthi Karthikeya stood out with her hat-trick, showing good awareness and composure in front of goal. Captain Varsha Suresh, Safwa Sakeer, and Krisha Purokayasta added one goal each as India continued to battle hard despite the scoreline.
China’s commanding 34–6 win sent them into the semifinals, where they will face Kazakhstan for a place in the final.
Japan, Kazakhstan, and Thailand Join China in Women’s Semifinals
In the other women’s quarterfinals, Japan edged out Hong Kong 20–16 in one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament. Shibata Kanade top-scored for Japan with five goals, while captain Fukuda Shoka and Eguchi Seira contributed four each. Sanda Yumeka (3) and Kobayashi Maho (2) rounded off Japan’s tally.
Hong Kong fought valiantly, led by Ho Cheuk Kiu with five goals, and captain Lau Tsz Ching, who added three. However, Japan’s superior endurance in the closing quarter ensured their passage to the semifinals. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan defeated Singapore 10–7 in a tactically disciplined performance. Vorontsova Olga and Rudneva Yelizaveta led the charge with three goals apiece. For Singapore, Tio Ji Suan’s hat-trick was the highlight of their campaign.
In the final women’s quarterfinal, Thailand edged Uzbekistan 8–6 in a hard-fought contest. Captain Thinwilai Janista, Puangtong Kritsana, and Rueangsappaisan Raksina scored two goals each to help Thailand advance. Gavashelashvili Elena stood out for Uzbekistan with four of her team’s six goals.
Iran, China, and Japan Cruise in Men’s Quarterfinals
The men’s water polo quarterfinals also saw dominant performances from Asia’s top teams. Iran stormed into the semifinals with a 21–6 victory over Thailand, led by Shams Arman and captain Yazdankhah Mehdi, who each scored four goals. China overcame Singapore 18–12 in another high-scoring affair. Shen Dingsong led the scoring with five goals, supported by Captain Chen Yimin (4) and Lu Yi (3). For Singapore, Goh Wen Zhe impressed with five goals of his own.
Japan continued their fine form, overpowering Hong Kong 29–12, driven by a spectacular eight-goal show from Lowrey Jun and five from captain Ura Enishi. Japan’s relentless attacking tempo kept Hong Kong under pressure throughout, sealing their semifinal berth comfortably. The day’s final men’s quarterfinal will feature Uzbekistan vs Kazakhstan, with the winner set to meet China in the semifinals.
Semifinal Line-up
Women’s Semifinals – October 10
- Japan vs Thailand – 11:00 AM
- Kazakhstan vs China – 12:30 PM
Men’s Semifinals – October 10
- Iran vs Japan – 2:00 PM
- China vs TBD (Winner of Uzbekistan vs Kazakhstan) – 6:30 PM
While India’s campaign ended at the quarterfinal stage, the experience gained by the young squad against Asia’s elite teams is expected to play a crucial role in their continued development. The tournament now heads into its closing stages, with Asia’s water polo giants set to battle for continental supremacy over the weekend in Ahmedabad.
