Nagpur, June 3: The Indian women’s U-18 hockey team has achieved a remarkable feat by defeating Singapore 25-0, securing the top position in Group A and a place in the semifinals of the Asia Cup.
In the match held on Tuesday, ten different players from the Indian team scored. Naushin Naz led the charge with an impressive seven goals (8′, 13′, 17′, 18′, 40′, 52′, 58′). Geetashree Nami, named ‘Player of the Match,’ contributed five goals (13′, 28′, 47′, 48′, 60′), while captain Sweety Kujur added four goals (2′, 24′, 38′, 45′).
Priyanka Minj also made her mark with a hat-trick (22′, 37′, 53′), and other players including Diya (27′), Nancy Saroh (36′), Shruti Kumari (40′), Pushpa Manjhi (47′), Rashmeen Kaur (47′), and Sandipa Kumari (51′) each scored once.
The Indian team showcased their aggressive play right from the start. Captain Sweety opened the scoring in the second minute, followed by Naushin extending the lead in the eighth minute. Both Geetashree and Naushin scored in the 13th minute, establishing India’s dominance in the match.
In the second quarter, the Indian team continued to assert their control, with Naushin netting two quick goals. Priyanka and Sweety helped increase India’s lead before halftime.
The scoring spree continued after the break. Diya and Geetashree scored early in the third quarter, with Nancy, Priyanka, Sweety, Naushin, and Shruti all contributing to break through Singapore’s defense.
In the final quarter, India scored ten more goals, marking one of the best performances at the U-18 level.
India has now secured victories against Malaysia, Korea, and Singapore, finishing at the top of Pool A with a perfect record and 9 points. The team has successfully advanced to the semifinals.
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PAK
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