FIH Pro League: Deepika's Stunning Acute Angle Goal Helps India End Losing Streak Beat USA 3-1- WATCH
Deepika's reverse swing from a tight angle resulted in the team's second goal in their 3-1 win over USA.
In a spectacular display of skill and determination, the Indian women's hockey team secured a triumphant 3-1 victory against the United States at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, concluding the Bhubaneswar leg of the Hockey Pro League 2023-24. Vandana Katariya (9’), Deepika (26’), and Salima Tete (56’) were the goal-scorers for India, while Sanne Caarls (42’) netted the lone goal for the United States.
The game commenced with India pouncing on to an early opportunity through a penalty corner. However, Deepika's dragflick narrowly missed the mark. Responding swiftly, the United States posed a threat with Elizabeth Yeager's shot from a tight angle. India's captain Savita exhibited exceptional goalkeeping prowess, ensuring a safe outcome for her team.
Midway through the first quarter, Sangita Kumari's strategic run down the right wing created a scoring opportunity. The ball, bouncing off the United States' goalkeeper Kealsie Robles, found Vandana Katariya, who skillfully tapped it into the goal, securing India's first goal
Deepika's Brilliant Angle Goal
The second quarter witnessed the United States launching an offensive, with Elizabeth Yeager attempting a reverse shot, hitting the side netting. Despite a blazing run by Salima Tete on the right wing, a missed connection in the circle thwarted the scoring opportunity.
India, employing a high press, dominated the quarter. In the closing minutes, Monika's precise pass to Vandana set the stage for a remarkable goal. Vandana, in turn, directed the ball to Deepika on the right wing, and her reverse swing from a tight angle added another goal to India's tally. The first half concluded with a 2-0 lead in India's favour.
Take a look at the video here:
India get their first win of season 5 #FIHProLeague against USA, with Deepika making a fantastic contribution by scoring and assisting a goal each!
— International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) February 9, 2024
📱 Watch the full match highlights on https://t.co/igjqkvzwmV pic.twitter.com/ZLeEe9W9RE
United States' Fightback
In the third quarter, India maintained the initiative, with Sharmila Devi's attempt down the left wing falling short of finding a teammate in the circle.
Both teams earned penalty corners, but failed to capitalise, keeping the scoreline unchanged. With three minutes left in the quarter, Sanne Caarls of the United States unleashed a tomahawk shot, beating Savita and narrowing the lead.
As the game progressed, Deepika embarked on a remarkable run along the left wing, maneuvering past defenders. She delivered a precise cross to Salima, who deftly deflected the ball into the goal, restoring India's two-goal lead.
Despite the United States' persistent efforts in the dying moments, India maintained composure, securing a 3-1 victory. The Indian Women's Hockey Team is now set to face China on February 12 in their upcoming match.
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