Shrachi Bengal Tigers made a winning start to the Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2025–26 season by defeating JSW Soorma Hockey Club 1-0 at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Stadium in Ranchi on Monday.

Agustina Gorzelany’s powerful drag flick in the 11th minute proved to be the difference. Despite sustained attacking pressure from Soorma Hockey Club, the Tigers’ disciplined defence held firm until the final whistle.

Early midfield battle sets the tone

Both sides began the match with high intensity, locking horns in a tight midfield contest. Gradually, Soorma Hockey Club started to assert themselves and made repeated entries into the Tigers’ circle. However, they struggled to convert possession into clear shots on goal.

The Tigers looked to counter through the wings. Their approach paid off when they earned a penalty corner five minutes before the end of the first quarter. Gorzelany stepped up and fired the ball into the bottom right corner to give the Tigers the lead.

Soorma had a chance to respond immediately. They won a penalty corner at the end of the quarter, but Shihori Oikawa’s effort was deflected wide.

Soorma dominate possession, Tigers defend strongly

JSW Soorma Hockey Club stayed on the front foot in the second quarter. They penetrated deep into the Tigers’ defence and earned several penalty corners. However, Lalremsiami’s fearless rushing at the top of the circle denied them a breakthrough.

Soon after, Maria Granatto launched a strong run through the centre following a midfield turnover. Valentina Raposo read the danger well, forced Granatto wide, and prevented a shot on goal. The Tigers continued to protect their narrow lead with resolute defending.

Frantic third quarter sees no change

Soorma earned another penalty corner early in the second half through Baljeet Kaur. Salima Tete attempted a variation, but her shot missed the target.

The pressure continued as Soorma pushed the Tigers deep into their own half. Still, the Tigers’ backline stood tall and managed to create a few counter-attacks, stretching the game at times. As the third quarter progressed, the Tigers showed greater intent going forward but failed to find a second goal.

Soorma relied heavily on penalty corner routines to break the deadlock, but none paid off. The quarter ended at a frantic pace, with both teams searching desperately for a goal, yet the score remained unchanged.

Tigers hold nerve in final moments

The final quarter began with several midfield turnovers, allowing Soorma to regain momentum and territory. However, the Tigers matched their intensity and slowed the tempo to manage the clock.

In the closing minutes, Soorma raised the pressure once again. They earned a crucial penalty corner with just two minutes remaining, but Penny Squib’s attempt flew wide of the post.

The Tigers stayed compact and united in the dying moments. Their collective defensive effort ensured they closed out a 1-0 victory and began their season on a positive note.