Vedanta Kalinga Lancers defeated HIL GC in a dramatic encounter at the Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2025–26. The match ended 1-1 after regulation time. The Lancers then sealed a 3-1 victory in the shootout at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astro Turf Hockey Stadium on Sunday.

With this win, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers climbed to the top of the league table.

Goals in Regulation Time

Ajeet Yadav scored first for HIL GC in the second quarter. He found the net in the 19th minute. Alexander Hendrickx responded for the Lancers soon after. He converted a powerful drag-flick in the 23rd minute to level the match.

Notably, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers did not concede a single penalty corner during the entire game. Their defensive discipline stood out.

HIL GC Control Early Play

HIL GC dominated the opening stages of the match. They controlled possession and kept play mostly inside the Lancers’ half. They earned six circle entries early on but failed to convert them into goals.

Vedanta Kalinga Lancers stayed compact in defence. They relied on quick counter-attacks and also registered six circle entries. They earned the first penalty corner of the match but could not score. The first quarter ended without a goal or shot on target.

Second Quarter Brings Goals

The second quarter saw more intent from both teams. HIL GC finally broke the deadlock with their first shot on target. Captain Hardik Singh created the move from midfield, and Ajeet Yadav finished from close range.

The Lancers pushed back immediately. They launched several attacks and won six penalty corners within minutes. Alexander Hendrickx made one count with a fierce drag-flick. His goal ensured the scores were level at half-time.

Tight Battle After the Break

The third quarter followed a familiar pattern. HIL GC kept the ball well and searched patiently for space. The Lancers continued to threaten on fast breaks.

Hendrickx came close to scoring again, but HIL GC goalkeeper James Mazarelo produced an excellent save. Both teams attacked with purpose, yet neither could find a breakthrough.

No Winner in Regulation Time

The final quarter remained tense and evenly matched. HIL GC managed only three circle entries. Vedanta Kalinga Lancers created just two.

Neither side registered a shot on target. With no clear chances, the match went into a shootout to decide the winner.

Lancers Hold Nerve in Shootout

The shootout tested nerves on both sides. Goalkeepers James Mazarelo and Jed Snowden made crucial saves early on. After both teams scored their first attempts, the next two shooters were denied.

Arthur Van Doren calmly converted for the Lancers. Ajeet Yadav then missed his chance for HIL GC. That opened the door for Dilpreet Singh, who scored to seal the win for Vedanta Kalinga Lancers.