By Boria Majumdar
In a remarkable show of resilience and skill, the Indian women’s hockey team stunned defending champions and World No. 1 Netherlands, clinching a dramatic 2-1 shootout victory after a pulsating 2-2 draw in the FIH Hockey Pro League at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday. This win, led by the brilliance of Savita Punia, Deepika, and Baljeet Kaur, is one of the most significant in India’s hockey history, symbolising the team’s unrelenting spirit despite the heartbreak of missing out on the Paris Olympics.
For Savita, this match held special significance. In January 2024, after India’s crushing defeat to Japan in Ranchi that ended their Olympic dreams, she contemplated retirement. A conversation with her father changed her mind. Now, in her 301st international appearance, she stood tall as the hero in goal, ensuring India’s victory against the best team in the world.
A Gritty Comeback Against the World’s Best
The match began with the Dutch asserting dominance, controlling possession and launching relentless attacks. Their efforts bore fruit in the 17th minute when captain Pien Sanders converted a well-executed penalty-corner variation, slotting the ball into the net from an acute angle.
Despite India’s defensive resolve, the Netherlands doubled their lead in the 28th minute. A lofted pass found Luna Fokke on the baseline, who delivered a pinpoint assist to Fay van der Elst for a diving finish that left India trailing 0-2.
India’s Stunning Fightback
The turning point arrived in the third quarter. Deepika, showcasing immense skill and composure, weaved her way past defenders along the baseline before unleashing a perfect strike into the net in the 35th minute. The goal ignited India’s charge.
Just eight minutes later, Baljeet Kaur ensured the comeback was complete. Sharmila Devi sprinted down the right flank and found Baljeet at the near post, who fired the ball past the Dutch keeper to level the score at 2-2.
India could have sealed the match in regulation time, but Salima Tete missed a golden opportunity after Deepika’s set-up. Meanwhile, the Netherlands kept pushing, but Savita’s reflexes denied them time and again, forcing the match into a shootout.
Savita the Saviour in Shootout
In the shootout, Deepika and Mumtaz Khan converted for India, while Savita stood unshakable, pulling off two crucial saves to secure a 2-1 win. The Kalinga Stadium erupted as India celebrated a monumental victory over the world’s top-ranked team.
Harendra’s Impact and Hockey India’s Recognition
The victory was also a testament to head coach Harendra Singh’s fearless approach. While many questioned the decision to appoint an Indian coach, Singh has instilled steel in this squad, pushing them to take on the best without fear. His belief in young players, tactical acumen, and willingness to experiment are now reaping rewards.
Following the win, Hockey India announced a cash award of Rs 1 lakh for each player and Rs 50,000 for every support staff member, acknowledging their efforts and reinforcing the federation’s commitment to the team’s progress.
Sign of Progress for Indian Women’s Hockey
Though the pain of missing out on Paris 2024 still lingers, this win is a reminder that Indian hockey is very much on the right path. Defeating the world’s best, especially after being 0-2 down, is a statement of intent. It proves that with the right mindset and support, this team can challenge and overcome the biggest obstacles in global hockey.
This wasn’t just a win; it was a message. Indian women’s hockey is here to stay.