The India Junior Women Hockey Team kicked off their European tour with a spirited 3-2 win over hosts Belgium in a high-octane clash at the Hockey Center of Excellence in Wilrijkse Plein, Antwerp, on Sunday.
The match saw India battle back from a goal down to secure a memorable win, with field goals from Geeta Yadav and Sonam and a decisive penalty corner conversion from Lalthantluangi sealing the deal.
Facing a skilled Belgian side on their home turf, the Indian team showed grit, resilience, and attacking flair in a game that swung from end to end. This victory not only sets the tone for the tour but also highlights the depth and potential of India’s next generation of hockey stars.
Bright Start in Antwerp
India got off the blocks quickly, pressing high and making early inroads into the Belgian circle. Their pressure paid dividends in the 11th minute when Geeta Yadav found the back of the net with a well-taken field goal. Her precise finish gave India a deserved early lead and set the tone for a competitive first quarter.
However, Belgium, known for their structured style and strong basics, slowly grew into the game. They began stringing passes together and pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their efforts were rewarded in the second quarter when Marie Goenns scored in the 25th minute, finishing off a swift move that caught the Indian defence slightly off-guard.
Belgium Takes the Lead, India Responds
With momentum now shifting, Belgium capitalised in the third quarter. In the 34th minute, Louise Van Hecke pounced on a loose ball inside the circle and slotted it past the Indian goalkeeper to give the hosts a 2-1 lead. It was a reminder that at this level, even a small lapse can be costly.
But the Indian team didn’t take long to respond. Just six minutes later, in the 40th minute, Sonam leveled the scores with a brilliant individual effort. Her quick reflexes and calm finish brought India back into the game and reignited the team’s attacking rhythm.
Buoyed by the equaliser, India pushed harder and earned a penalty corner in the final minute of the third quarter. Lalthantluangi stepped up and made no mistake, firing home a clinical drag-flick to put India back in front at 3-2.
Holding the Lead with Grit
The final quarter saw Belgium throwing everything forward in search of an equaliser. Their forwards probed the Indian circle repeatedly, but the Indian defence held firm. Goalkeeper and defenders worked in unison to clear danger, with smart positioning and timely interceptions keeping Belgium at bay.
India’s midfield also stepped up, disrupting Belgian build-up play and maintaining composure under pressure. As the clock ticked down, India stayed disciplined and compact, eventually sealing the 3-2 win.
This victory underlines several positives for India. The ability to bounce back from a deficit, execute under pressure, and convert penalty corners effectively are all encouraging signs. The attacking trio of Geeta, Sonam, and Lalthantluangi showed both skill and awareness, while the backline demonstrated resolve in the dying moments of the match.
Importantly, the match also served as valuable experience for the players to test themselves against strong European opposition, helping the team grow ahead of more challenging fixtures.
The Indian Junior Women’s Hockey Team will face Belgium once again on 10th June, in the second fixture of their European tour. The match will offer another opportunity for the team to build on this momentum and fine-tune combinations.
As the tour progresses, the focus will remain on maintaining consistency, building synergy across lines, and continuing to develop match temperament—critical aspects as this group prepares for future international tournaments, including the Junior Women’s World Cup.
Final Score:
India 3 – 2 Belgium
Scorers (India): Geeta Yadav (11’), Sonam (40’), Lalthantluangi (45’)
Scorers (Belgium): Marie Goenns (25’), Louise Van Hecke (34’)
With this fighting victory, the Indian Junior Women’s team has announced its arrival in Europe in style. The next match promises more action as this promising squad continues its development journey with eyes on the global stage.
