The Indian junior women's hockey team delivered a spectacular and commanding performance to kick off their FIH Junior Women's World Cup campaign in Santiago, Chile. On Monday, at the Centro Deportivo de Hockey Césped, Estadio Nacional, the team led by Jyoti Singh decimated Namibia with an emphatic 13-0 victory in their opening Pool B match.
A Goal-Scoring Rampage from the Start
India signalled their intent immediately, earning a shot on target and forcing a save from the Namibia goalkeeper within the first thirty seconds. The relentless pressure paid off in a flurry of goals. Sakshi Rana opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a precise reverse flick. Just two minutes later, Kanika Siwach doubled the lead with a powerful strike. The first-quarter onslaught continued as Binima Dhan (14') and Sonam (14') found the net in quick succession, giving India a formidable 4-0 lead within the first fifteen minutes.
The second quarter followed a similar script of Indian dominance. Sakshi Rana netted her second goal in the 23rd minute after a brilliant solo run. Sakshi Shukla converted a Penalty Corner in the 27th minute, and Kanika Siwach scored her second just before halftime, making it 7-0 and putting the game completely beyond Namibia's reach.
Hat-Tricks and a Record Scoreline
The second half saw no respite for the Namibian defence. Hina Bano announced her arrival in the tournament with a thunderous strike in the 35th minute. In a remarkable sequence, she capitalized on a loose restart to score again within a minute. Ishika added a tenth goal in the 36th minute from a Penalty Corner rebound.
The third quarter was particularly fruitful for the hat-trick heroes. Hina Bano completed her treble in the 45th minute, and Kanika Siwach also registered her third goal moments later, also from a Penalty Corner, taking the score to a staggering 12-0. Even with rotations in the final quarter, India kept pushing. Manisha put the final nail in the coffin, scoring in the 60th minute to complete the 13-0 rout, a statement win for the young Indian side.
The Stiff German Test Awaits
This resounding victory sets the stage for a high-stakes clash that will likely decide the group winner. India's next match is against European powerhouses Germany on December 3rd at 19:45 IST. Germany began their campaign with a strong 7-1 win over Ireland.
The encounter against Germany is critical for India's quarterfinal prospects. A win would virtually guarantee them top spot in Pool B and an automatic berth in the last eight. A draw would make goal difference against Ireland and Namibia decisive in the final group standings. However, a defeat could leave India hoping to qualify as one of the best second-placed teams, adding immense pressure to their final group game. The team's spectacular start has built momentum, but the true test of their World Cup ambitions begins now.
