Women's Pro League: India Stuns World No. 1 Netherlands 2-1 in Shootout, Hockey India Rewards Players
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Synopsis
In a thrilling Women's FIH Hockey Pro League match, India staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Netherlands 2-1 in a shootout after a 2-2 draw. Goals from Deepika and Baljeet Kaur led India to victory, prompting Hockey India to announce substantial cash rewards for the players and support staff.
Key Takeaways
- India defeated the Netherlands 2-1 in a shootout.
- Deepika and Baljeet Kaur scored crucial goals for India.
- Hockey India announced cash rewards for players and staff.
- The match showcased India's resilience despite being two goals down.
- Savita's saves were vital in the shootout victory.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 25 (NationPress) In an exhilarating match, India secured a bonus point by overcoming the reigning champions and World Cup titleholders Netherlands 2-1 in a shootout following a 2-2 draw in the Women's FIH Hockey Pro League at Kalinga Stadium on Tuesday. Despite trailing by two goals, India executed a stunning comeback in the third quarter, with goals from Deepika (35’) and Baljeet Kaur (43’). The Netherlands saw their captain Pien Sanders (17’) and Fay van der Elst (28’) score to put them ahead.
In light of this remarkable victory, Hockey India announced a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh for each Indian player and Rs 50,000 for every member of the support staff, in addition to their existing policy of awarding Rs 50,000 for each win.
The Dutch side dominated the first quarter, leading in possession and scoring attempts. They earned the first penalty corner in the 5th minute, where Matla Frederique took a powerful shot, brilliantly saved by Savita. The Netherlands continued to press, winning three more corners, but India's solid defense thwarted their efforts.
In the second quarter, the Netherlands found the first goal in the 17th minute through a well-executed penalty corner. Sanders received the ball on the baseline and scored from a tight angle, giving the Dutch the lead.
After securing their sixth penalty corner in the 23rd minute, the Dutch attempted the same variation, but an Indian defender blocked Sanders' shot. In the 28th minute, Lalremsiami made an impressive solo run into the circle, but India failed to capitalize on the opportunity.
Right before halftime, the Netherlands doubled their lead with a well-crafted play. Luna Fokke received a lofted ball and assisted Elst, who made a diving finish to score.
India showed improvement in the third quarter, netting two vital goals to equalize. In the 35th minute, Deepika skillfully maneuvered past the Dutch defense and scored from the baseline.
Despite continued pressure from the Dutch, who earned another penalty corner in the 39th minute, Savita made a crucial save. India created a chance when Deepika passed to Salima Tete, but the captain missed the opportunity.
India scored the equalizer in the 43rd minute thanks to a fantastic finish from Baljeet. Sharmila Devi set her up with a pass after a right-wing run, and Baljeet's first-time shot found the net past the Dutch goalkeeper.
In the final quarter, both teams fought hard for the win. The Netherlands launched multiple attacks but were ineffective in front of goal. In the 53rd minute, India counterattacked, with Salima charging into the circle, but the Dutch defense held firm, leading to a shootout for the bonus point.
Deepika and Mumtaz Khan scored for India, while Savita made essential saves, ensuring the home team triumphed in the shootout 2-1 against the defending champions, the Netherlands.
