India triumphed over New Zealand in a thrilling junior women’s hockey World Cup match. The game ended in a 3-3 tie during regular play, pushing them into a sudden-death penalty shootout. In this exciting showdown, India emerged victorious with a 3-2 score.
In the regulation 60 minutes, Ropni Kumari, Jyoti Chhatri, and Sunelita Toppo scored for India, while Isabella Story, Madeline Harris, and Riana Pho netted goals for New Zealand.
India kicked off the game with a dominant presence, consistently pressuring New Zealand’s defense. Ropni Kumari secured an early lead with a successful conversion off an initial penalty corner. However, New Zealand fought back, and by the end of the first quarter, they led 2-1.
The second quarter saw India’s aggressive play paying off, with Jyoti Chhatri leveling the scores. The teams entered halftime tied at 2-2. Despite numerous opportunities in the third quarter, neither team managed to break the deadlock.
As the fourth quarter began, New Zealand took the lead with Riana Pho’s precise shot from consecutive penalty corners. India, determined to equalize, intensified their attacks. With just seven minutes left, Sunelita Toppo found the equalizer via a penalty corner.
The game moved into a sudden-death penalty shootout, where India emerged triumphant with a 3-2 score. Sakshi Rana, Preeti, and Mumtaz Khan converted their chances for India.
Looking ahead, India is set to face the winner of the South Korea vs. South Africa match in the ninth to 12th place classification game on Thursday.