India’s junior women’s hockey team defeated Ireland 4-0 in their final Pool C clash at the FIH Junior Women’s World Cup in Santiago. With goals from Purnima Yadav, Kanika Siwach, and Sakshi Rana, India ended the group stage level on points with Germany, keeping their quarterfinal hopes alive.
India produced a commanding performance in their last Pool C match of the FIH Junior Women’s Hockey World Cup 2025, blanking Ireland 4-0 at the Centro Deportivo de Hockey Césped, Estadio Nacional in Santiago, Chile. The victory came as a strong response after their earlier defeat to Germany, showcasing resilience and attacking flair.
Key highlights from the announcement include
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Purnima Yadav scored a brace in the 42nd and 58th minutes, leading India’s charge.
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Kanika Siwach opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a composed finish.
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Sakshi Rana added a goal in the 57th minute, sealing India’s dominance.
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India displayed attacking intent from the start, winning a penalty corner within the first 12 seconds.
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Despite early missed opportunities, the team maintained pressure with multiple penalty corners in the first half.
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Ireland’s goalkeeper Lucy McGoldrick made crucial saves but could not stop India’s relentless attack.
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India now stand level on six points with Germany, who still have a game in hand against Namibia.
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Qualification hopes hinge on results across other groups, with India aiming to secure a spot among the best two runners-up.
The match highlighted India’s ability to bounce back under pressure, with Jyoti Singh’s leadership ensuring composure and tactical discipline. The team’s aggressive play, combined with clinical finishing in the second half, reflected their determination to stay in contention for the knockout stages.
This victory not only boosts India’s confidence but also underscores the depth of talent in the junior women’s squad. With players like Purnima Yadav and Kanika Siwach stepping up in crucial moments, India’s campaign remains alive, though dependent on other group outcomes. The result has energized fans and reinforced optimism about the future of women’s hockey in India.
Sources: Outlook India, The Hindu, Hockey India, Olympics.com