The Indian women's team is feeling the pressure after their fourth defeat, heading into a tough FIH Pro League matchup against the undefeated Netherlands on Wednesday, February 14. The team has been navigating a difficult period, struggling to find their rhythm in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela after the disappointment of failing to qualify for the Paris Olympics.
Women in Blue’s India’s morale has plummeted after suffering their fourth defeat, and the Indian women are gearing up for another challenging battle in the FIH Pro League against the undefeated Netherlands on February 14, Wednesday. The Indian women’s hockey squad has recently encountered difficulties. After failing to qualify for the Paris Olympics, the team has performed poorly in the current Pro League matches in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela.
Led by captain Savita Punia, India has a disappointing record of one win and four losses in five Pro League games. Their campaign opened with a string of defeats against China, the Netherlands, and Australia, with the only highlight being a 3-1 win over the USA. A second loss to China this past Monday has only added to the frustration. Now, they face a massive challenge against the top-ranked Netherlands, who boast 27 points from nine matches. India currently lingers in fifth place, with just three points to their name.
Captain Savita expressed that while the results have been disappointing, she still believes the team has the capability to put up a fight and earn some points. She noted that they are showing flashes of great play and emphasized that consistency is the missing piece they need to start winning more games.
While forwards like Sangita Kumari, Vandana Katariya, Deepika, Navneet Kaur, and Salima Tete have managed to find the back of the net, the team's real struggle lies in their penalty corners. This has been a recurring nightmare since the Olympic Qualifiers in Ranchi. The statistics are worrying: out of 21 penalty corner opportunities in five matches, India has failed to score a single goal.
For India to pull off a surprise victory against the Dutch on Wednesday, Gurjit Kaur, Deepika, and Udita will need to be clinical and creative with their set pieces. Additionally, the defensive line must sharpen their penalty-corner protection to prevent easy goals. Head coach Janneke Schopman is urging her players to be more decisive when chances arise.
Coach Schopman acknowledged the strength of the Dutch team but insisted that India has the talent to compete. Her strategy is to maintain high intensity and patience, ensuring they capitalize on every scoring opportunity. After today, India will wrap up the Odisha leg with matches against Australia on February 17 and the USA on February 18.