The Shrachi Bengal Tigers kicked off their Women's Hockey India League (WHIL) 2025-26 season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Soorma Hockey Club on Monday, December 29, 2025. The decisive moment came from their marquee Argentine signing, Agustina Gorzelany, who scored the solitary goal in the 11th minute to secure all three points for her team.
Gorzelany Justifies Her Price Tag
The Bengal Tigers had invested heavily in Gorzelany during the mini-auction, spending a significant 42 lakh rupees to acquire her services. The investment paid immediate dividends in the season opener. In a match where Soorma dominated possession and created more chances, it was Gorzelany's clinical finish from a penalty corner that proved to be the difference-maker. Her powerful drag-flick beat the onrushing defender Nisha and left Indian national team goalkeeper Savita Punia with no chance.
Soorma's Dominance Meets Stubborn Defence
Despite the scoreline, the match was largely controlled by Soorma Hockey Club. They showcased superior attacking intent with 28 circle entries and earned a staggering 13 penalty corners throughout the game. However, they were repeatedly thwarted by an organized and resolute Bengal Tigers defence. Key players like Salima Tete, Baljeet Kaur, and Shihori Oikawa created opportunities for Soorma, but the finishing touch eluded them. Oikawa saw a shot deflected wide, while Tete's attempt from a penalty corner variation missed the target.
A Tactical Battle Unfolds
The game evolved into a strategic duel after the early goal. Soorma, trailing by a goal, launched relentless attacks, especially in the second quarter. The Bengal Tigers, content to protect their lead, dropped deeper and showcased exemplary defensive discipline. As the match progressed into the third quarter, the Tigers attempted to show more creativity on the counter-attack but lacked the final pass. In the final quarter, they adopted a smart, tactical approach, slowing down the tempo to manage the game clock.
Soorma turned up the pressure in the dying moments, earning a late penalty corner with just two minutes remaining. However, Penny Squibb's flick sailed wide, sealing the Tigers' fate. The Bengal Tigers held firm as a cohesive unit in the final seconds to clinch a vital 1-0 win and start their campaign with a perfect record.
This opening victory provides a crucial boost for the Bengal Tigers, demonstrating their ability to grind out results even when not at their fluid best. For Soorma, it's a case of converting dominance into goals as they look to bounce back in their next Women's Hockey India League fixture.
