The Indian women’s junior hockey team stormed into the Women’s Junior Asia Cup 2024 with a resounding 13-1 victory over Bangladesh in Muscat, Oman, on December 8.
It was a commanding performance that showcased their flair, precision, and hunger for success, leaving fans and pundits buzzing with excitement.
The Scoring First Half
The game began with India setting an electric pace, and it didn’t take long for them to strike. Deepika opened the scoring in the 7th minute with a beautifully executed penalty corner (PC), quickly followed by another PC conversion by Manisha in the 10th.
By the 12th minute, Kanika Siwach added a brilliant field goal, and India were already cruising at 3-0.
Bangladesh pulled one back moments later when Orpita Pal capitalized on a PC opportunity, narrowing the deficit to 3-1. But that was as close as they got.
The Indian juggernaut kept rolling, with Deepika scoring her second in the 20th minute and Mumtaz Khan extending the lead to 5-1 before halftime.
A Second-Half Masterclass
India returned from the break with their attacking instincts intact. Mumtaz added her second in the 32nd minute, followed by Beauty Dung Dung’s clinical finish in the 33rd.
Sakshi Rana joined the party in the 43rd minute, making it 8-1.
The final quarter turned into a goal-fest. Kanika Siwach and Mumtaz Khan both completed their hat-tricks, with Siwach scoring twice in the 51st minute and Mumtaz striking in the 53rd.
Deepika wasn’t far behind, completing her hat-trick in the 55th minute before Mumtaz sealed her fourth goal in the 58th, wrapping up a scintillating 13-1 victory for India.
Star of the Show
Mumtaz Khan was the undisputed star, netting four goals and tormenting the Bangladesh defence throughout. Her clinical finishing earned her the well-deserved Player of the Match award.
What’s Next?
With this thumping win, India have sent a strong message to their opponents. Up next, they face Malaysia on December 9, and if today’s performance is any indicator, the Indian team is just getting started.
This is the kind of dominance that sets the tone for a championship campaign, and fans can’t wait to see what’s next for this talented squad. Game on!
