The Indian women's hockey team lost a hard-fought game as they stumbled in the pivotal moments of the penalty shootout, conceding a 3-4 defeat to Germany in the second semifinal of the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers 2024 on January 18 (Thursday) at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi.The match extended to a penalty shootout after the teams remained deadlocked at 2-2 during the regulation time. Germany's win in the shootout earns them a coveted berth in the upcoming Paris Olympics later this year.
Nevertheless, despite the setback, India still have an opportunity to secure the coveted Olympics 2024 berth by defeating Japan in the upcoming third-fourth place match on Friday. The tournament's format ensures that the top three teams earn qualification for the Paris Olympics 2024. Meanwhile, the fifth-ranked global team, Germany, is set to square off against the USA in the final on Friday.
Coming to the match, Deepika (15th minute) and Ishika Chaudhary (59th) scored for India during regular time, while Charlotte Stapenhorst netted both goals for Germany (27th, 57th). The Germans attacked aggressively from the start, applying continuous pressure on the Indian defence amid foggy conditions that affected visibility.
Despite India's initial struggles, they gained confidence with a penalty corner goal from Deepika just before the end of the first quarter. Germany responded with a well-coordinated strategy, earning penalty corners and creating numerous circle entries. Stapenhorst equalised three minutes before halftime with a field effort. The relentless Germans continued their assault in the second half, testing the Indian defence.
India's Missed Opportunities
Although India had opportunities, including a counter-attack in the 35th minute, they couldn't convert chances into goals. Stapenhorst's second goal in the fourth quarter gave Germany the lead, but India fought back, forcing a shootout with Ishika's late goal.
In the shootout, India had an advantage with goalkeeper Savita making two crucial saves. However, missed opportunities in sudden death by Navneet Kaur, Neha Goyal, Sangita Kumari, and Sonika allowed Germany to clinch the victory and secure their place in the Paris Olympics 2024.