Santiago, Dec 02: The Indian junior women’s hockey team made a spectacular start to their campaign at the FIH Junior Women’s World Cup, defeating Namibia 13-0 in their opening match. With this emphatic win, India climbed to the top of Pool C.
Hina Bano and Kanika Siwach starred with brilliant hat-tricks, while Sakshi Rana struck twice. Binima Dhan, Sonam, Sakshi Shukla, Ishika, and Manisha added a goal each to complete the tally. The team, captained by Jyoti Singh, showcased dominance and discipline throughout the contest.
Earlier, Germany registered a 7-1 win over Ireland in the same pool. India, drawn alongside Germany, Ireland, and Namibia in Pool C, will next face Germany tomorrow, followed by Ireland on Friday in their final group-stage match.
In men’s hockey, India will take on Switzerland in their final group league encounter at the FIH Junior Men’s World Cup in Madurai, Tamil Nadu today. The match is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM IST.
Both India and Switzerland remain unbeaten in Pool B with two wins each, but the hosts currently lead the table owing to a superior goal difference. The clash will decide the group topper ahead of the knockout stage.
