After six straight gold medals for South Korea the tournament in New Delhi offered a change of the podium hierarchy. Japan won the very tight final 25–24 and achieved the outmost continental success.
If the final was the modern classic the history didn’t repeat itself on the final day. Japan took revenge after several losses to the Asian dominant, last time with a drama in extra time.
Kaho Nakayama found the net seven times in the winning team. South Korea had a three goal-lead at half-time by Japan came back in the second half and had a splendid finish in store.
Natsuki Aizawa effectively decided the final, allowing Japan some relief before the final second cheer.
After the second Asian title, Japan brings confidence to the World Cup 2025, accompanied by fellow contenders South Korea, Kazakhstan and Iran.
Kazakhstan captured bronze via 28-22 in the medal duel, thus denying Iran in their third attempt in a third place game.