Tokyo Olympics: India women’s hockey team defeats Ireland 1-0, stays alive in QF race

Indian Women’s Hockey Team have kept hopes of an Olympic quarterfinal berth alive as Navneet Kaur ensured victory with a late winner in a 1-0 victory over Irish women. This was a must-win fixture for Indians, a game which y totally dominated. After being frustrated by heroic defensive efforts by Irish goalkeeper Ayeisha Mcferran throughout game, nerves were finally settled in 57th minute when Navneet finally beat keeper.

re were worries that India would rue missed chances as women in blue h 14 penalty corners and failed to take vantage of m. Indian skipper Rani Rampal created opportunity as she cut onto her weak from right flank and flashed a dangerous cross across goal. Navneet carefully tapped and ensured victory. Now, India must win ir final Pool A fixture against South African team. If y win penultimate fixture, y still will not qualify if Great Britain fails to win against Ireland.

Even though India dominated, Ireland held tight

India dominated first two quarters well and reached Ireland’s circle on numerous occasions. attackers failed to convert chances and India failed to take vantage of ten penalty corners y h accumulated in first two quarters. Mcferran came clutch with many crucial saves, at times only difference between two teams. Ireland tried to attack India on counters and dominated in early second quarter. Ireland was not dangerous in ir chance creation and ir only two shots were saved by onrushing keeper Savita.

Later in game, Sharmila Devi went on an amazing solo run that started from midfield and she entered circle. She changed her body position and struck a magnificent shot that was miraculously kept out by McFerran. When India received ir 14th penalty corner, coach Sjoerd Marijne h hoped for a better execution but attackers again failed to effectively take a shot on target. However, despite various shortcomings and lack of luck, Indian team is one step away from securing a quarter-final spot.

(With ANI inputs)