Santiago, Dec 8 (LatestNewsX) – In a 9‑11 qualification match for the FIH Junior Women’s World Cup, India’s junior women’s team edged Wales 3‑1 at the Centro Deportivo de Hockey Cesped, Estadio Nacional in Santiago.
Hina Bano opened the scoring in the 14th minute, followed by Sunelita Toppo in the 24th, and Ishika adding a third in the 31st. Wales answered with Eloise Moat’s solitary goal in the 52nd minute.
India kicked off the match with intense pressure, securing a penalty corner within the first 30 seconds to set the tone. They played aggressively across the field, creating several chances but initially struggled to find the back of the net. A penalty stroke almost gave Wales the lead until Nidhi performed a quick and decisive save, keeping the scores level.
The first half saw India score early in the second quarter when Hina Bano tapped in a quick tap‑in after sharp play from Sakshi Rana. They then added another, with Sunelita Toppo curling home a deflected shot from Sakshi’s initial attempt, doubling the lead to 2‑0 as India had broken the Welsh circle 14 times in the first half.
Into the second half Ishan’s breakthrough came in the 31st minute after a rebound off the Welsh goalkeeper, pushing India to a 3‑0 advantage. Jyoti Singh’s side controlled the tempo, breaking through Wales’s defense by moving between the lines and maintaining a tight, disciplined defense. They churned out scoring chances, pushing Wales back into their own half by the end of the third quarter.
India remained the dominant possession holder and looked for a fourth goal in the final quarter. Wales managed to cut the deficit when Eloise Moat netted a consolation goal in the 52nd minute, but India’s resilience saw them finish the match on top, sealing a well‑earned 3‑1 win.
The Indian squad’s next game is scheduled against Uruguay on December 9.
vi/bc
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
