Amsterdam, August 19: In a stunning display, the Indian women’s hockey team triumphed over South Africa with a score of 6-1 in the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026. This match took place at the Wagner Hockey Stadium in Amsterdam, solidifying India’s position in Pool D.
With this victory, India remains unbeaten in the tournament. Previously, they drew 2-2 against China, the 2024 Olympic silver medalists, accumulating four points from two matches. India currently leads the pool based on goal difference and will conclude their campaign against England on August 20.
After drawing their opening match against China, the Indian women’s team entered this game determined to secure all three points. They made their aggressive intentions clear from the outset.
In the seventh minute, India earned their first penalty corner. During a play initiated by Baljeet Kaur on the left, the ball struck a foot inside the circle. Deepika attempted a set piece, but Van Tonder blocked the Indian drag-flick.
The relentless pressure paid off in the 11th minute. India patiently maneuvered the ball around the South African circle, and Sakshi Rana’s shot found its way to Sunelita Toppo, who opened the scoring for India.
In the 15th minute, Ishika Chaudhary received a green card, forcing India to play with ten players for a brief period. However, the team maintained their composure. At the start of the second quarter, Savita took over goalkeeping duties, and India continued to push forward.
In the 17th minute, a well-executed penalty corner move doubled India’s lead. Navneet Kaur changed the angle and unleashed a powerful slap hit that struck the backboard, making the score 2-0.
India extended their lead in the 25th minute. Deepika’s drag-flick deflected off the first rusher and landed perfectly for Sushila Chanu, who scored with a decisive touch, bringing the score to 3-0.
South Africa attempted to mount a comeback, but India showcased dominance, leading 3-0 at halftime.
In the 38th minute, India struck again with a brilliant attacking move. Navneet exchanged passes with Baljeet on the left before sending the ball to Deepika. She controlled it with a backhand and executed a powerful tomahawk shot into the bottom corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
The third quarter was marked by India’s continued dominance, as they attacked with speed and purpose. Within two minutes, they scored two more goals, solidifying their control of the match.
In the 44th minute, Lalremsiami received an aerial ball from Neha inside the circle. Using a reverse stick, she shot toward the far post, deceiving the goalkeeper and making the score 5-0.
India added another goal in the 45th minute. Salima advanced the ball on the right and passed to Ishika, whose shot hit the goalpost. Sakshi Rana reacted quickly to the rebound, scoring with a powerful reverse hit to complete India’s sixth goal.
South Africa continued to fight until the end and found success in the 55th minute when Kayla de Wall converted a penalty corner. Pierce’s drag-flick evaded the first Indian rusher, and De Wall quickly responded at the far post, reducing the deficit to 1-6. No further goals were scored in the match.