India secured a thrilling win against the Netherlands in the Women's FIH Hockey Pro League at the Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar. After a dramatic 2-2 draw, India triumphed 2-1 in the shootout to claim the bonus point.
India’s Stunning Comeback
Despite trailing by two goals, India fought back in the third quarter. Deepika struck in the 35th minute, and Baljeet Kaur netted the equalizer in the 43rd minute. Earlier, the Netherlands had taken control with goals from Captain Pien Sanders (17’) and Fay van der Elst (28’).
Hockey India Rewards Players and Staff
Following this remarkable victory, Hockey India announced cash rewards. Each player will receive ₹1 lakh, while support staff members will get ₹50,000. Additionally, the team will benefit from an existing ₹50,000 reward for every win.
Netherlands Dominates Early Game
The Netherlands controlled possession in the first quarter and won multiple penalty corners. In the 5th minute, Matla Frederique’s powerful shot was denied by a brilliant save from Savita. The Dutch kept pressing but couldn’t break India’s solid defense.
Netherlands Takes the Lead in the Second Quarter
The Dutch finally found the breakthrough in the 17th minute. Off a penalty corner, Sanders scored from a tight angle. In the 28th minute, Luna Fokke set up Elst for a diving finish, doubling the Netherlands' lead just before halftime.
India Fights Back in the Third Quarter
After halftime, India intensified their attack. Deepika weaved past defenders and scored from the baseline in the 35th minute. The Dutch responded with more attacks, but Savita made crucial saves, keeping India in the game.
India almost scored again when Deepika passed to Salima Tete, but the captain missed the connection. However, in the 43rd minute, Sharmila Devi delivered a perfect pass to Baljeet, who struck past the Dutch keeper to level the score.
Intense Final Quarter Ends in Shootout
Both teams searched for a winner in the final quarter. The Netherlands created multiple chances but struggled to convert. India counterattacked in the 53rd minute, but the Dutch defenders recovered quickly. India defended strongly in the final moments, pushing the match into a shootout.
India Seals the Win in Shootout
Deepika and Mumtaz Khan converted their shots in the shootout. Meanwhile, Savita made key saves, ensuring a 2-1 shootout victory over the defending champions. This win marked a memorable moment for Indian women’s hockey.