Navneet Kaur's dramatic penalty corner goal in the dying seconds secured a hard-fought 2-2 draw for India against defending champions Japan in a thrilling Pool B encounter at the Women's Asia Cup hockey tournament here on Saturday, keeping their Super 4s hopes alive.

Trailing twice, India showcased resilience: Hiroka Murayama put Japan ahead in the 10th minute, but Rutaja Dadaso Pisal levelled in the 30th. Chiko Fujibayashi restored Japan's lead in the 58th, only for Navneet to equalise in the 60th, ensuring a share of points in the pulsating match.

Following an 11-0 rout of Thailand in their opener, world No. 10 India now faces Singapore on September 8 in their final Pool B game. Japan, ranked 12th, remains a formidable force as titleholders.

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The tournament, featuring eight teams, sees the top two from each pool advance to the Super 4s, with the top two there contesting the final on September 14. The winners earn a spot in the 2026 Women's World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands.

India, without injured veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia and drag-flicker Deepika, demonstrated depth and determination, positioning themselves well for progression in the continental showdown.

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