Germany Dominates India with 4-0 Victory in Women's FIH Pro League

Synopsis

Germany secured their first victory of the season with a decisive 4-0 win over India in the Women's FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25. Key performances by Sophia Schwabe, Amelie Wortmann, and Johanna Hachenberg highlighted their dominance at Kalinga Stadium.

Key Takeaways

Germany achieved a 4-0 win against India.
Sophia Schwabe scored two goals for Germany.
Amelie Wortmann and Johanna Hachenberg also scored.
Germany climbed to the seventh spot in standings.
Savita Punia put in a commendable performance for India.

Bhubaneswar, February 21 (NationPress) Germany achieved their inaugural victory of the season with a dominant 4-0 triumph over India during a women's match in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 at the Kalinga Stadium on Friday. Sophia Schwabe (18’, 46’) netted an impressive brace, while goals from Amelie Wortmann (3’) and Johanna Hachenberg (60’) propelled the Germans to the seventh position in the standings.

Under the guidance of former Indian coach Janneke Schopman, Germany started strong, taking the lead as early as the third minute. Aina Kresken delivered a low cross from the right, allowing Amelie Wortmann to finish unmarked at the back post. The Indian defense faced continuous pressure as Germany launched multiple attacks and earned several penalty corners.

Despite the constant threat, goalkeeper Savita Punia excelled, helping the Indian defense withstand the onslaught. India had a promising opportunity in the ninth minute when Deepika executed a brilliant tomahawk pass, but Mumtaz Khan was unable to connect in time. The hosts had another chance to equalize in the 15th minute with a 2v1 opportunity against the German goalkeeper but couldn't convert.

Germany extended their lead in the 18th minute with a remarkable goal from Sophia Schwabe. She made a dazzling run into the circle, maneuvered past three defenders, and unleashed a powerful shot into the bottom right corner.

Facing a two-goal deficit, India aimed for a quick comeback, but persistent rain made conditions difficult. Nonetheless, they came close in the 27th minute when Navneet set up Sharmila Devi, whose attempt was thwarted.

India started the third quarter strong, winning a penalty corner in the first minute. Deepika took a well-aimed drag-flick but missed the target. Coach Harendra Singh's halftime adjustments seemed beneficial as the Indian team increased their attacking momentum. However, they struggled to convert, leaving Germany with a 2-0 lead going into the final quarter.

Things became even more challenging when Schwabe scored her second of the night in the 46th minute. Receiving the ball in the circle, she positioned herself perfectly and executed a powerful tomahawk shot, bringing the score to 3-0 and effectively securing the win for her team.

India found a glimmer of hope when Mumtaz found the net in the 57th minute, but the goal was ruled out for dangerous play. Johanna Hachenberg added another goal with just 50 seconds remaining, sealing a commanding 4-0 victory for Germany.