New Delhi: India booked their place in the second round of the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup after producing a determined defensive display to hold England to a goalless draw in their final Pool D match on Thursday.
The result was enough for India to progress after finishing second in the group with one win and two draws. China topped Pool D following a 5-1 victory over South Africa earlier in the day. India and China will carry one point each into the next stage.
India struggled to find their rhythm in possession, with passing, ball control and penalty corner execution proving major concerns as the match progressed. They earned six penalty corners but failed to convert any. However, their defensive organisation remained impressive, particularly when England created opportunities from set pieces.
India made an aggressive start and earned three penalty corners during the opening quarter. Navneet Kaur and Deepika were unable to find the target with their efforts. England responded by increasing the pressure and earned their first penalty corner, but goalkeeper Sunelita made a crucial save to deny Sophie Hamilton.
India threatened again in the second quarter when Navneet created an opportunity for captain Salima Tete, who found Ishika inside the circle, but the chance went begging. Lalremsiami later earned another penalty corner, only for England goalkeeper Miriam Pritchard to make an important save.
England dominated large periods after the interval and earned 11 penalty corners overall. Savita Punia produced several vital saves, while Sakshi, Salima and the rest of the defensive unit repeatedly blocked England’s attacks.
The pressure intensified in the final quarter when England removed their goalkeeper in search of a winning goal. India held firm, with Bichhu Devi producing a stunning diving save just 30 seconds from the final whistle to preserve the draw.
The result keeps India’s World Cup campaign alive, although their attacking performance will need significant improvement as they enter the crucial second round.
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