Bhubaneswar, Jan 24 (NationPress) The Kalinga Lancers have officially secured a spot in the final of the Men’s Hockey India League 2025–26, triumphing over the Ranchi Royals with a score of 2-1 in Qualifier 1 at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Friday. Captain Arthur Van Doren credited the team's success to their disciplined approach and collective work ethic.

The Lancers’ journey to the final has been bolstered by their impressive defensive strategy. Having previously topped the league stage with 16 points, the team has conceded only eight goals this season, marking the lowest in the league.

“We anticipated a challenging match against a team with significant attacking prowess and individual skills. Our primary focus was on maintaining compactness, denying space in critical areas, and ensuring cohesive defensive connections throughout the game,” stated Van Doren.

“While we weren’t flawless in every aspect, our discipline was evident. Everyone committed fully, communicated effectively, and adhered to the structure we've established throughout the season. In knockout matches, that’s what provides the opportunity to win,” he added.

Penalty corners have played a pivotal role for the Lancers this season, with a conversion rate of 29.7 percent. Belgian drag-flicker Alexander Hendrickx leads the team in scoring, netting 10 goals in eight matches.

Hendrickx highlighted that the team's defensive strategy was key to his performance in Qualifier 1, which included a brace. “Our ability to defend as a cohesive unit was crucial,” he noted. “We started strong, took a 2-0 lead, and even when they reduced the deficit, we remained composed, conceding just one goal.”

“It may not always appear flashy, but it’s effective. We controlled the game well, particularly in the closing stages, by managing possession, making prudent decisions, and exercising patience. That level of composure is vital in tightly contested matches,” Hendrickx elaborated.

Van Doren also stressed the importance of keeping perspective. “The competition in this league is incredibly challenging, as evidenced by the number of close encounters we’ve faced, including shootouts earlier in the season,” he remarked. “While we’ve maintained a solid structure and navigated key moments effectively, there’s still potential for improvement.”

“Reaching the final is a significant milestone, but it does not assure victory. Our focus remains on thorough preparation, refining minor details, and taking it step by step,” he added.

Hendrickx reflected on the significance of goal scoring, emphasizing the team-oriented nature of their efforts. “Scoring goals is always enjoyable, but our primary objective is the team’s victory,” he stated. “We understand that earning penalty corners enhances our chances of scoring, but it matters little who executes them.”

“Competing at home in Bhubaneswar has been exceptional. The support we’ve received since our arrival has been monumental, providing us with additional energy. We will savor reaching the final momentarily and then fully concentrate on the ultimate challenge,” Hendrickx concluded.

The Kalinga Lancers are set to face off in the Men’s Hockey India League 2025–26 final at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Monday, with their sights set on winning the championship.