India Women's Hockey Team Defeats USA 3-2 in FIH Nations Cup Opener

Navneet Kaur (File photo)

The Indian women's hockey team came from two goals down to defeat the USA 3-2 in its opening Pool A match of the FIH Nations Cup in Auckland on Monday. Deepika scored twice for India, while Navneet Kaur added the third goal. Ashley Sessa and Madeleine Zimmer scored for the USA. The winner of the Nations Cup will earn promotion to the FIH Pro League, from which India were relegated last season.

The USA made a quick start and took the lead in the fourth minute when Ashley Sessa scored a field goal. Three minutes later, the Americans extended their lead as Madeleine Zimmer converted a penalty corner in the seventh minute to make it 2-0.

India gradually settled into the match and found a way back in the second quarter. Drag-flicker Deepika converted a penalty corner in the 17th minute to reduce the deficit. India continued to put pressure on the USA defence and earned another penalty corner midway through the quarter. Deepika stepped up again and converted in the 24th minute to level the scores at 2-2.

The comeback was completed before half-time. Navneet Kaur converted a penalty corner in the 28th minute to put India ahead 3-2, giving the team a one-goal lead at the break.

The second half was closely contested, with both teams searching for goals. India and the USA earned six penalty corners each during the match, but neither side was able to score again in the final two quarters. India defended its lead in the closing stages to secure all three points and begin its Nations Cup campaign with a win.

Following the result, India moved to second place in Pool A with three points, level with Japan, which leads the standings on goal difference.