The Indian women’s hockey team will look to make it to the final of the FIH Junior World Cup for the first time by defeating three-time champions Netherlands in Potchefstroom, South Africa on Sunday. India’s best ever performance in the tournament was in 2013 when the team won the bronze medal at Mönchenglabach, Germany. India, who have been unbeaten in the tournament so far, defeated Germany 2-1 after beating Wales 5-1 and then also defeated Malaysia (4-0) and Korea (3-0).
The team led by Salima Tete has put in concerted efforts so far and has performed well in all departments. Salima said, “We came into this tournament with the determination to win every match. As a team, we know that we will be able to achieve results if we keep our focus. We have been able to execute the plans we have for our rivals.
“Even in tomorrow’s match, we will focus more on what we can do as a team,” he said. The Indian front line has scored 14 goals in the tournament so far and only two goals against the team. Young star Mumtaz Khan has grabbed everyone’s attention. She has scored six goals in the tournament. Lalremsiami, Lalrindiki and Sharmila Devi have played him well. The presence of three Tokyo Olympians in the Indian team in captain Salima, Lalremsiami and Sharmila has had a positive impact on the team’s performance.
Full credit should go to the Indian midfield which has created many goalscoring opportunities for the team. Apart from the front line and midfield, the defense has also performed well so far in the presence of goalkeeper Bichu Devi Karibam. Young Bichu, who recently made his senior team debut in the FIH Pro League, has thwarted several attacks from the opposition.
However, it will not be easy for India to overcome the challenge of Netherlands. Apart from being the three-time champions, the Netherlands were also runners-up in the previous tournament in Santiago, Chile. The Netherlands, like India, finished on top in the pool stage, winning all three of their matches, beating South Africa 5-0 in the quarter-finals. But as an in-form Indian team, the Netherlands will face the first tough test.
Salima said, “The experience we have gained over the years will be valuable against a strong team like the Netherlands. There will be no room for error in this match. It is good that most of the players have got a chance to play for the senior team in the Hockey Pro League, so now they are better prepared to handle the pressure in tense situations.” In another semi-final, Germany will face England.