India Women Rally from Two Goals Down to Stun USA in Nations Cup Opener

A spirited comeback led by Deepika helped the Indian women’s hockey team begin their FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup campaign on a winning note, as they overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat the United States 3-2 in their opening Pool A clash at Auckland’s North Harbour National Hockey Centre.

Returning to the national side in style, Deepika scored twice and was named Player of the Match for her outstanding performance.

The USA made a flying start, taking the lead in the fourth minute when Ashley Sessa struck from open play. The Americans extended their advantage three minutes later as Madeleine Zimmer successfully converted a penalty corner, putting India on the back foot early in the contest.

India gradually settled into the game and began creating opportunities. Their revival started in the second quarter when drag-flicker Deepika converted a penalty corner in the 17th minute to reduce the deficit.

With momentum shifting in their favour, India continued to press forward. Deepika struck again in the 24th minute, converting another penalty corner to draw India level at 2-2.

The comeback was completed before halftime when Navneet Kaur capitalised on yet another penalty-corner opportunity in the 28th minute, giving India a 3-2 lead heading into the break.

The second half was a closely fought affair, with both teams searching for an equaliser or a decisive fourth goal. Each side earned six penalty corners during the match, but disciplined defending ensured there were no further goals.

India successfully protected their slender advantage in the final stages to secure all three points. The victory lifted them to second place in Pool A with three points, level with Japan, who sit on top due to a superior goal difference.

India will next take on Japan in their second Pool A fixture on June 16.
 

With inputs from IANS