Spain's Winning Streak Continues with Narrow Victory Over India in FIH Women's Hockey Pro League
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Synopsis
Spain extended their winning streak to four games by defeating India 1-0 in the FIH Women's Hockey Pro League at Kalinga Stadium. Captain Marta Segu scored the match's sole goal, showcasing Spain's strong performance and India's struggle to equalize despite several opportunities.
Key Takeaways
- Spain's victory extends their winning streak to four games.
- Marta Segu scored the only goal of the match in the 49th minute.
- India created several chances but couldn't find the back of the net.
- Strong defensive efforts from both teams were evident throughout the match.
- Spain showcased impressive attacking play, especially in the third quarter.
Bhubaneswar, February 19 (NationPress) After a fiercely contested battle across four quarters, Spain triumphed over India with a score of 1-0 in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 (Women) at Kalinga Stadium on Wednesday. Captain Marta Segu netted the only goal of the match in the 49th minute, extending Spain's winning streak to four games in the tournament.
The initial two quarters were marked by a cautious approach, with both teams heading into halftime without any goals. In the sixth minute, Spain earned consecutive penalty corners, but both Lucia Jimenez’s attempt and Berta Serrahima's slap shot were expertly saved by Savita.
In the 15th minute, Vice Captain Navneet Kaur displayed remarkable skill, maneuvering along the baseline from the left and passing to Sushila Chanu in front of the goal, but the opportunity was squandered as she failed to gain control. Spain earned another penalty corner in the 18th minute, but Constanza Amundson’s shot soared too high to be on target.
During the second quarter, India displayed greater attacking intent but couldn't find the equalizer. Baljeet Kaur intercepted a loose ball from Spain and advanced towards the goal, but her final pass to Sakshi Rana was misplaced. Shortly after, India was awarded their first penalty corner, with Navneet taking the shot, yet it failed to breach the goal.
In the 29th minute, Florencia Amundson made a significant move from the right flank, winning a penalty corner for Spain. Jimenez took the shot, but Vaishnavi Phalke, the first rusher, successfully blocked it, concluding the first half.
The third quarter was dominated by Spanish attacks in search of the opening goal. In the 33rd minute, Patricia Alvarez launched an impressive attack from the right, maneuvering past two Indian defenders and passing to Amundson. Her strong shot from a tight angle was nearly a goal, but Savita executed a crucial goalline save just in time.
Shortly after, Manisha Chauhan fouled Paula Jimenez, conceding a penalty corner. Spain earned four penalty corners consecutively, yet India's formidable defense kept the scoreline unchanged.
Spain finally broke the stalemate in the fourth quarter. In the 49th minute, Captain Marta Segu found space to maneuver down the left flank, firing a shot through Savita's legs and into the net, giving Spain the lead.
With a goal deficit, India ramped up their offensive efforts, generating two significant scoring chances. Neha executed a clever through ball aimed at Lalremsiami, but the attacker couldn't reach it in time. Moments later, Rutaja Dadaso Pisal fired a shot that was saved by the keeper, and Lalremsiami attempted a rebound shot, which sailed over the post.
In the final seconds of the match, India was awarded a last penalty corner, but couldn't convert as Navneet narrowly missed the target. Spain's resilient defense held firm, ensuring they preserved their slim lead and continued their winning streak in the FIH Hockey Pro League.
