Indian Women’s Hockey Team Shocks World No. 1 Netherlands with Thrilling Penalty Shootout Victory in FIH Pro League!

Bhubaneswar: In an exciting match at Kalinga Stadium, India and the Netherlands finished with a 2-2 draw. However, India triumphed in the shootout, securing a 2-1 win and a bonus point during the FIH Hockey Pro League (Women) on Tuesday. After trailing by two goals, India made an impressive comeback in the third quarter with goals from Deepika in the 35th minute and Baljeet Kaur in the 43rd minute. The Netherlands had taken the lead with goals from Captain Pien Sanders in the 17th minute and Fay van der Elst in the 28th.

Following this remarkable victory, Hockey India announced cash rewards: each player will receive Rs 1 lakh, while support staff members will get Rs 50,000, in addition to their usual reward of Rs 50,000 for each win.

The Netherlands started strong, controlling possession and putting pressure on India. They earned their first penalty corner in the 5th minute, but goalie Savita made a stunning save. The Dutch team continued to press and scored their first goal from a penalty corner in the 17th minute. Sanders converted a clever play from a tight angle to put her team ahead.

Despite several more attempts, India’s defense held firm, blocking a sixth penalty corner in the 23rd minute. Near the end of the first half, the Dutch extended their lead. Luna Fokke set up Elst in front of the goal with a well-placed pass, and Elst converted with a diving finish.

In the third quarter, India found their rhythm. Deepika’s outstanding run along the left flank led to their first goal in the 35th minute, as she evaded defenders and scored. The Indian team kept pushing, and despite a missed opportunity by Salima Tete, they managed to equalize in the 43rd minute with a precise shot from Baljeet, assisted by Sharmila Devi.

With the score tied, the final quarter was intense. Both teams searched for a winner. The Netherlands attempted to reclaim the lead, but India’s defense held strong. In the 53rd minute, India countered with a fast break, but the Dutch quickly responded to avert danger. The match ended without a decision in regulation time, leading to a shootout.

In the shootout, Deepika and Mumtaz Khan scored for India, while Savita made crucial saves, sealing the victory for the home team against the defending champions, the Netherlands.