Road to Olympics: India face tough qualifiers against Asian rivals

New Delhi, Dec 17 (UNI) Having missed the first opportunity to book a berth for the Beijing Olympics with their medal-less show at the Doha Asiad, the Indian hockey team will now have to come good against Japan, Malaysia and Bangladesh in the qualifiers for an opportunity to play at the 2008 mega-event.

Three teams from Asia -- Korea, hosts China and Pakistan -- qualified for the sporting extravaganza after winning Gold, Silver and Bronze respectively at the Doha Asiad.

China being hosts would have in any case participated in the event.

The nine remaining slots will be filled next year and early 2008.

Out of these only one slot is left for Asia and the Indians have a tough task at hand of lifting themselves from the slump as they bid to fill the only vacant spot.

Meanwhile, two women's teams booked an Olympic spot as a result of the Asian Games. Champions and hosts China as well as runners-up Japan are sure of Olympic participation.

The 10 remaining vacancies are due to be filled next year and early 2008.

The Indian eves, who finished with a Bronze medal will be up against formidable Korea, Malaysia and Taipei in their qualification bid.

Teams Qualified for 2008 Olympic Games (Men): China (Host), Korea (Asian Games Champion), Pakistan (Asian Games bronze medalist) Teams Qualified for 2008 Olympic Games (Women): China (Asian Games Champion and host), Japan (Silver Medalist Asian Games UNI PM SAM VV1436