The 2022 Women’s FIH Hockey World Cup was more than just a tournament for India; it was a testament to the courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit of our women athletes. Held in Spain and the Netherlands, this prestigious event saw the world’s top hockey teams competing fiercely for glory. India, with its rich history and strong presence in international hockey, was ready to make its mark.
Though India did not end up with a medal, their performance was full of moments that ignited the hopes of millions. Here’s how the team made their way through the tournament, facing challenges head-on and showing what true sportsmanship is all about.
Let’s Look at the Key Recaps of India’s FIH Hockey World Cup 2022 Journey
1. India vs. England (1-1 Draw) – July 1, 2022
India’s first match in the tournament was against England. The game kicked off with high energy and intensity, and it was clear that both teams were evenly matched. England took the lead early in the match, but India responded well with a goal from Vandana Katariya, showing their resilience. Despite the best efforts of Savita Punia in goal and solid midfield work, India couldn’t manage to find the winning goal, resulting in a 1-1 draw.
2. India vs. China (1-1 Draw) – July 3, 2022
Next up was China, another important match in India’s campaign. The game saw strong defensive play from both teams. India had several chances to take the lead, but failed to capitalize. China also had their fair share of opportunities, but India’s defense stood firm. In the end, the game ended in a 1-1 draw. While the result wasn’t ideal, India showed growth in terms of ball possession and strategic play.
3. India vs. New Zealand (3-4 Loss) – July 5, 2022
India faced New Zealand in a high-paced match that saw both teams fighting tooth and nail for every point. Despite India’s best efforts, including goals from Lalremsiami, Gurjit Kaur, and Vandana Katariya, New Zealand’s offensive play proved too strong. The match ended in a 4-3 loss for India, which pushed them into a tough spot in the group standings.
4. India vs. Spain (1-2 Loss) – July 8, 2022
The crossover match against Spain was a crucial one. Spain managed to break through India’s defense with a late goal, sealing a 2-1 win. India had several opportunities to equalize but couldn’t convert them, and the loss meant they would not make it to the quarter-finals. The match was heartbreaking, but it also showcased India’s competitive spirit and growing tactical strength.
5. India vs. Canada (3-2 Penalty Shootout Victory) – July 12, 2022
India’s last match was against Canada, where they secured a 3-2 victory in a penalty shootout. With the game tied 1-1 at the end of regulation time, it came down to penalty shootouts. Savita Punia was the star of the shootout, saving crucial penalty shots and helping India secure a win. This victory helped India finish on a high note after a tough tournament.
6. India vs. Japan (3-1 Win) – July 13, 2022
India’s match against Japan was a defining moment in the tournament. The team showed great composure and teamwork to secure a 3-1 victory. Goals from Vandana Katariya, Navneet Kaur, and a brilliant strike by Sharmila Devi helped India dominate the game. The victory against Japan was a much-needed morale booster, and it highlighted the team’s ability to bounce back after tough matches.
Final standings:
| Country | Position |
|---|---|
| Netherlands | 1 |
| Argentina | 2 |
| Australia | 3 |
| Germany | 4 |
| New Zealand | 5 |
| Belgium | 6 |
| Spain | 7 |
| England | 8 |
| China | 9 |
| India | 9 |
India’s Final Standing: A Step Toward Growth
India finished in the 9th position, tied with China. While this was not the result they hoped for, it does not reflect the full journey of the team. The Indian women’s team fought hard in every match, and though they faced setbacks, their determination and resilience were clear for all to see.
The team’s performance showed significant improvement in terms of strategy, teamwork, and individual performances. Despite not advancing to the later stages, the experience they gained on the world stage is invaluable. They have a lot to take away from this tournament, and this experience will undoubtedly serve them well in future competition.
Conclusion: Looking Forward to Greater Achievements
While the 2022 FIH Hockey World Cup did not bring India the success they envisioned, it was a crucial step in the team’s development. The lessons learned, both on and off the field, will fuel the team’s growth in the coming years. With emerging stars and experienced players working together, the Indian women’s hockey team is poised for greater success in future international tournaments.
We look forward to seeing them shine brighter, with each match making them stronger. The journey of the Indian women’s hockey team is far from over, and with the passion they have shown, we are confident they will rise to new heights in the near future.
Jai Hind!
