In a pulsating encounter that showcased resilience, nerves of steel, and rising talent, India defeated World No. 2 Argentina 2-0 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation time at the Junior Women’s Four Nation Hockey Tournament.
Captain and goalkeeper Nidhi delivered a masterclass in goalkeeping, pulling off four consecutive saves to seal the victory on Argentine soil.
This win marks India’s third consecutive unbeaten result in the tournament, and solidifies their position at the top of the standings, ahead of hosts Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile. The match was held in Rosario, where the home crowd’s energy was high—but it was India who left the pitch smiling.
Argentina Strike First, India Strike Back
The hosts made an early statement. In the 10th minute, Milagros Del Valle found the back of the net, giving Argentina a 1-0 lead and putting India on the backfoot. The early goal spurred Argentina’s intensity, and the home team maintained control through much of the first half.
However, the Indian squad, showing great composure and tactical maturity, began to gain momentum in the second half. Their persistence paid off when Kanika, who has now scored four goals in three matches, struck the equaliser in the 44th minute. The goal came at a crucial juncture in the third quarter, shifting the energy in India’s favour and setting up a nail-biting finish.
With the match ending 1-1 in regulation time, the result would be decided by a shootout. What followed was a clinic in goalkeeping from India’s captain. Nidhi, the backbone of this young Indian side, saved all four Argentine attempts—a feat rarely seen in international hockey shootouts, especially against a team of Argentina’s calibre.
On the other end, Lalrinpuii and Lalthantluangi held their nerves and converted their chances with calm precision, ensuring India walked away with a 2-0 win in the shootout. Nidhi’s leadership, composure under pressure, and sharp reflexes in the circle earned her deserved accolades as the undisputed player of the match.
Kanika’s Consistency a Key Strength
India’s standout attacker in the tournament so far, Kanika, continued her golden run with another goal, her fourth in three matches. Whether it’s quick counterattacks or capitalizing on penalty corners, Kanika has emerged as India’s go-to goal scorer at this tournament. Her consistent performance has been central to India’s unbeaten streak, and she now stands as one of the leading scorers in the competition.
Her 44th-minute strike against Argentina not only drew India level but also displayed her growing maturity and finishing instincts, especially under pressure against a world-class defence.
Tournament Context: India on Top
With this victory, India remain unbeaten after three matches and sit atop the points table in the tournament. The current standings are:
- 🇮🇳 India
- 🇦🇷 Argentina
- 🇺🇾 Uruguay
- 🇨🇱 Chile
This result is particularly impressive considering the strength of the opposition. Argentina are currently ranked World No. 2 at the junior level, and playing them in Rosario—on their home turf—is never easy. Yet, India’s young side has shown tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and attacking flair throughout the event.
India will next face Chile on May 30, 2025, in their final group match of the Four Nations Tournament. Chile, who are currently bottom of the table, will be looking to salvage pride, but India—brimming with confidence—will be aiming for a clean sweep in the group stage.
Expect Nidhi and Kanika to remain crucial figures, while the midfield and defence, which performed admirably against Argentina, will need to continue their tight marking and quick transitions.
A New Era of Indian Junior Women’s Hockey?
The performance in Rosario is more than just a series of wins. It reflects the depth, preparation, and growing competitiveness of India’s junior women’s hockey program. The victory over Argentina is not just an isolated result—it’s a sign that the next generation of Indian women hockey players is ready to challenge the world’s best.
With promising names like Nidhi, Kanika, Lalrinpuii, and Lalthantluangi coming to the fore, the pathway from junior to senior level appears robust and encouraging. These performances also strengthen India’s long-term vision for the 2026 Women’s Junior World Cup.
India’s dramatic win over Argentina on penalties is a landmark result in the ongoing Four Nations Tournament—not just for its tactical significance, but for the confidence it injects into the young squad. As they now prepare to take on Chile, the focus will be on consolidating their dominance, refining their strategy, and maintaining the hunger that has already brought them three impressive performances.
The tricolor is flying high in Rosario, and with the final approaching, Indian hockey fans have every reason to believe that this junior team is destined for something special.
