How Did the Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team Triumph Over Belgium 3-2?

Synopsis
The Indian junior women’s hockey team continues their impressive performance in Europe, defeating Belgium 3-2 in a thrilling match. With key goals from Sonam, Lalthantluangi, and Kanika Siwach, India showcases their talent as they prepare for the upcoming FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2025 in Chile. Can they maintain this momentum against Australia?
Key Takeaways
- India's junior women’s hockey team won 3-2 against Belgium.
- Key players included Sonam, Lalthantluangi, and Kanika Siwach.
- The victory continues India's winning streak in Europe.
- Next match is against Australia on June 14.
- These matches are vital for preparation for the 2025 World Cup.
Antwerp, June 13 (NationPress) The Indian junior women’s hockey team celebrated their third consecutive victory in Europe, edging out Belgium with a score of 3-2 on Thursday at the Hockey Center of Excellence, Wilrijkse Plein.
Sonam (4’), Lalthantluangi (32’), and Kanika Siwach (51’) found the back of the net for India, while Marie Goenns (37’) and Marte Marie (40’) scored for Belgium.
India struck early in the match, with Sonam netting a field goal just four minutes into the game. They maintained their lead throughout the first half and extended it in the third quarter with a penalty corner goal from Lalthantluangi in the 32nd minute.
Belgium responded quickly with two back-to-back goals in the 37th and 40th minute, leveling the match. Marie Goenns scored the first goal via a penalty stroke, followed by a field goal from Marte Marie.
As the clock ticked down to just nine minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, Kanika converted a penalty corner, scoring the decisive goal that secured India’s victory and continued their winning streak during this European tour.
With a narrow 3-2 win over Belgium, India continued their successful campaign after another close match, winning 2-1 in their previous encounter.
Following three consecutive wins against Belgium, the Indian junior women’s hockey team will face Australia on June 14 as part of their European tour.
Importantly, these matches are crucial for India’s preparation for the FIH Hockey Women’s Junior World Cup 2025, set to take place in Santiago, Chile, in December 2025. India is grouped with former champions and strong contenders Germany, Ireland, and the underdogs Namibia in Pool C for this prestigious tournament.
For the first time in the competition's history, the event will feature 24 teams divided into six pools of four teams each.