Overview
Women’s Hockey World League Round-2 took place from March 7 to March 15, 2015, at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, India. This pivotal stage of the FIH World League brought together teams from India, Poland, Malaysia, Thailand, Russia, Kazakhstan, Ghana, and Singapore, all competing for a place in the semifinals and a step closer to Olympic qualification.
The Indian women’s hockey team entered the tournament with high hopes, energized by home support and rigorous preparation. The term “Round 2” refers to the league’s structure, where teams that advanced from the first round join higher-ranked sides in this stage, with the top performers moving on to the semifinals and finals.
Let’s take a detailed look at India’s match-by-match performance in this exciting tournament.
Matches Recap
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India vs Ghana (7 March 2015)
Result: India 13–0 Ghana
India began their campaign with a spectacular 13–0 victory over Ghana. Vandana Katariya was in top form, scoring four goals, while Monika, Deep Grace Ekka, Rani Rampal, Anuradha Thokchom, Jaspreet Kaur, Poonam Rani, and Lilima Minz all contributed. The Indian team’s relentless attacking and swift ball movement overwhelmed Ghana.
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Poland vs India (8 March 2015)
Result: Poland 0–2 India
India faced a strong Polish side and emerged victorious with a 2–0 win. Vandana Katariya and Poonam Rani were the scorers. India’s midfield controlled the tempo, while the defense stood firm, especially during penalty corners.
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India vs Thailand (10 March 2015)
Result: India 5–0 Thailand
The goals came from Anuradha Thokchom, Jaspreet Kaur (2), Rani Rampal, and Vandana Katariya. India’s forwards displayed excellent stick work and off-the-ball movement, constantly pressuring Thailand’s defense.
Quarterfinal: India vs Singapore (12 March 2015)
Result: India 10–0 Singapore
India overpowered Singapore with a 10–0 victory. Their passing combinations and quick transitions left Singapore struggling to respond, while India’s defense remained alert and composed.
Semifinal: India vs Thailand (14 March 2015)
Result: India 5–0 Thailand
India repeated their performance against Thailand with another 5–0 win. Aggressive pressing and counter-attacks paid off. Deep Grace Ekka led the defense with crucial tackles throughout.
Final: India vs Poland (15 March 2015)
Result: India 3–1 Poland
Vandana Katariya scored first, followed by Rani Rampal and Ritu Rani, who was playing her 200th international match. Poland equalized briefly, but India responded with composure. Goalkeeper Savita made key saves to preserve the win.
Final Standings
India’s performance throughout the tournament was marked by a potent attack, disciplined defense, and impressive teamwork. Vandana Katariya emerged as the top scorer, and Ritu Rani’s leadership was pivotal.
- India
- Poland
- Malaysia
- Thailand
- Russia
Malaysia secured third place by defeating Thailand, while Russia finished fifth after a convincing win over Kazakhstan.
Summary
The 2015 Women’s Hockey World League Round-2 in New Delhi was a resounding success for the Indian women’s hockey team. Their journey was characterized by dominant victories, resilient defense, and standout individual performances, culminating in a title win on home soil.
This triumph not only earned them a place in the semifinals but also inspired fans and aspiring players across the country, reinforcing India’s growing stature in international women’s hockey.
