Hyderabad Toofans produced a strong all-round performance to defeat HIL GC 2-0 in their Men’s Hero Hockey India League 2025-26 playoff clash on Friday. As a result, the Toofans booked a place in Qualifier 2 and kept their hopes of reaching the final alive.

Shilanand Lakra emerged as the match-winner, scoring both goals in the 16th and 39th minutes to guide his team through at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium.

Fast start but no early breakthrough

The match began at a high tempo, but neither side managed to score in the opening quarter. Hyderabad Toofans earned an early penalty corner in the second minute, yet they failed to convert.

Soon after, Sam Ward came close for HIL GC with a sharp deflection. However, Toofans goalkeeper Jean Paul Danneberg reacted quickly to deny him. In the 12th minute, Hyderabad nearly took the lead when Rohit Singh Irengbam deflected the ball toward goal with the goalkeeper off his line. Still, Surender Kumar produced a heroic goal-line save for HIL GC.

Lakra breaks the deadlock before half-time

Hyderabad Toofans finally broke through in the 16th minute. Shilanand Lakra won the ball in a dangerous area, drove into the circle, and scored with the help of a deflection to give his side the lead.

After that, Hyderabad continued to attack with intent. Meanwhile, HIL GC stayed patient and focused on maintaining possession. In the 24th minute, HIL GC earned a penalty corner. Kane Russell unleashed a powerful drag-flick, but Arthur De Sloover made a brilliant save on the line to protect the Toofans’ lead.

Hyderabad Toofans went into half-time holding a 1-0 advantage.

Pressure builds in the third quarter

At the start of the third quarter, Hyderabad Toofans increased the pressure and created several chances inside the circle. However, HIL GC defended bravely, and goalkeeper James Mazarelo made key saves to keep the scoreline tight.

In the 39th minute, Hyderabad earned another penalty corner. Amandeep Lakra flicked the ball on target, and although Mazarelo made the initial save, Shilanand Lakra (39’) reacted quickly to score from the rebound and double the lead.

Towards the end of the quarter, HIL GC won back-to-back penalty corners, but once again Arthur De Sloover stood firm, producing another outstanding save to keep Hyderabad two goals ahead.

Goalkeepers shine as Toofans stay solid

Hyderabad Toofans had a chance to seal the game in the 53rd minute when they were awarded a penalty stroke. However, Zachary Wallace was denied by a fine diving save from James Mazarelo.

With less than five minutes remaining, HIL GC took a risk by replacing their goalkeeper with an extra outfield player. They won another penalty corner in the 56th minute, but Kane Russell was once again stopped by De Sloover, who blocked the effort on the post for the third time in the match.

Despite a late push from HIL GC, Hyderabad Toofans defended with discipline and determination to keep a clean sheet and secure the win.

What’s next

Hyderabad Toofans will now play Qualifier 2 on Sunday, January 25, 2026, as they aim for a place in the final. Meanwhile, HIL GC will compete in the third-place playoff for the bronze medal on Monday, January 26, 2026.