Azerbaijan look to upset the odds against Korea

Day 3 of the AtaHolding Champions Challenge for women sees New Zealand face China in the opening game, with England playing USA in second match. The final game of the day sees top versus bottom, with impressive Korea looking to make it three wins out of three against host nation Azerbaijan.

Match 7: New Zealand V China

The Black Sticks battled hard for their first points of the tournament with victory over Azerbaijan on Sunday evening, but seem to be struggling for goals, having scored just once so far. China started the tournament well with victory, also over Azerbaijan, but were shocked by defeat at the hands of USA on Sunday. A victory for either side will keep them well in contention for a top two finish at the tournament.

Match 8: England V USA

England impressed on the opening day with a solid performance against New Zealand, but looked to struggle with both the on-pitch heat and the high tempo counter-attacking style of their opponents in Sunday’s defeat against Korea. USA started the tournament badly, never looking likely to get anything from their match against the Koreans, but stunned China with a 2:1 victory in their second fixture. Defenders Rachel DAWSON (USA) and Crista CULLEN (ENG) are expected to be central figures in this game.

Match 9: Azerbaijan V Korea

The home team have not scored since the tournament started, but have played some impressive attacking hockey in both of their matches so far. They could easily have scored on at least three occasions against New Zealand on Sunday, but did not seem to have luck on their side. They may well need it against Korea, who aim to keep their three point lead at the top of the table.

Results, league tables and match reports will be updated throughout the day on this site.