The Indian women’s team responded strongly after the initial defeat and registered a spectacular victory over Ukraine in their second Group A match in the Uber Cup Finals on Saturday. The win keeps India’s campaign alive ahead of the crucial final group-stage encounter.

After losing 2-3 to hosts Denmark in their first match, India needed a solid performance to stay in the competition. He performed similarly and secured an unassailable 3-0 lead by winning all three singles matches.

India dominate singles to seal tie

The charge was led by 18-year-old Unnati Hooda, who registered a straight games win over Polina Buharova. Showing composure at crucial moments, Hooda won the tough match 21-19, 22-20 in 46 minutes.

After this Tanvi Sharma had to work hard in the second singles. After winning the opening game easily, Yevgenia Kantemir pushed them into the deciding game. However, Sharma regained control in the third game and won 21-12, 17-21, 21-10 in a 49-minute battle.

Devika Sihag equalized in the third singles by defeating Maria Stolyarenko in straight games. He fought hard in the first game and won the match 23-21, 21-13 in 38 minutes.

With the tie already decided, the remaining two doubles matches became irrelevant.

What does this mean for India?

The win has put India back in a strong position after a disappointing start to their campaign. Ukraine, which also lost its opening match 0-5 to China, is now almost out of the race for a quarterfinal spot.

With only the top two teams from each group advancing, India’s qualification will now depend on their final group-stage encounter.

They face a tough test against China on Monday, a match that could decide their place in the knockout rounds.

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