AMSTELVEEN, AUG 18 (PTI): The Indian women’s hockey team delivered a commanding performance to rout South Africa 6-1 in their second Pool D clash at the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup, strengthening their chances of advancing to the knockout stage. With six different players finding the net, India showcased depth and attacking flair, moving to the top of the pool standings on goal difference.
India broke the deadlock in the 11th minute when Sunelita Toppo converted after Sakshi Rana’s deflected attempt. Navneet Kaur doubled the lead in the 17th minute with a clever penalty corner variation, her powerful strike piercing the defence. Sushila Chanu added a third in the 25th minute, reacting sharply to a rebound from Deepika’s flick.
The third quarter proved decisive, as India turned a comfortable lead into a rout. Deepika scored in the 38th minute with a backhand finish following a flowing move. Lalremsiami, fresh from receiving the Arjuna Award earlier in the day, netted in the 44th minute with a composed strike. A minute later, Sakshi Rana capitalized on a rebound to make it 6-0.
South Africa managed a consolation in the 55th minute when De Waal Kayla converted a penalty corner, but the late strike did little to dent India’s dominance.
South Africa began brightly, earning an early penalty corner in the fourth minute, but goalkeeper Bichoo Devi stood firm. India settled quickly, creating chances through Baljit Kaur and Deepika, and steadily built momentum. By halftime, India led 3-0, with their defence alert to South Africa’s counter-attacks, particularly from Onthatile Thati Zulu and Ntsopa Mokoena.
India’s relentless pressing after the interval overwhelmed South Africa, who struggled to contain the pace and precision of India’s forwards. The flurry of goals in the third quarter sealed the contest, leaving the opponents chasing shadows.
With this emphatic win, India climbed to the top of Pool D with four points from two matches, level with China but ahead on goal difference. England sit third with three points from one win and one loss, while South Africa, having lost both matches, are out of contention. India’s six-goal haul significantly boosted their goal difference, which could prove decisive in the tight race for qualification.
Coach Sjoerd Marijne, who has fielded 11 debutants in this World Cup, was visibly pleased with the team’s performance. The blend of experienced campaigners and fresh talent has given India a balanced edge, with contributions coming from across the squad.
India will face England in their final Pool D match on Thursday, a crucial fixture that will determine their progression to the next round. With confidence high after this resounding victory, India will look to carry forward their attacking momentum and defensive solidity.
