Thiruvananthapuram: The Indian women’s hockey team secured a convincing 5-1 victory against Italy in their third and final Pool B match of the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers 2024 at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi, Jharkhand. Udita (1’, 55’), Deepika (41’), Salima Tete (45’), and Navneet Kaur (53’) were the goal scorers for Bharat, while Camila Machin (60′) netted one for Italy.
This win secured Bharat’s second-place finish in the pool, just behind the USA, propelling them into the semifinals of the competition. The Indian women’s team now has the opportunity to earn a spot in the Paris 2024 Olympics with a top-three finish at the Ranchi meet.
Despite an initial shock defeat to the USA, the Indian team rebounded with victories against New Zealand and Italy, clinching a spot in the top four. Needing only a draw against Italy to progress, Bharat began the match on a strong note, with Udita converting a penalty corner in the first minute.
Led by Salima Tete, the Indian team showcased an impressive performance in the third quarter, with Deepika and Navneet Kaur adding to the scoreline. Udita secured her second goal from another penalty corner, sealing a commanding victory.
The Indian women’s team is set to face Pool A winners and world No. 5 Germany in the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers 2024 semifinal on Thursday. Even in the case of a loss, Bharat will have a second opportunity to secure a place in Paris 2024 during the bronze medal match.
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