The Indian women’s hockey team showcased grit and determination but narrowly missed out on a comeback as they lost 2-3 to Australia in a gripping FIH Pro League 2024-25 encounter at the Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre, London. Despite a spirited second-half surge, the Aussies held firm to claim all three points in this high-stakes European leg opener.
Australia Dominate Early, India Rally Late
Australia started the match with intensity and control, quickly putting India on the back foot. Courtney Schonell broke the deadlock in the 16th minute, giving the Hockeyroos an early advantage. The pressure mounted when Australia converted a penalty stroke in the third quarter, extending their lead to 3-0 and leaving India with a mountain to climb.
Key Moments from the Match
16th minute: Courtney Schonell scores, putting Australia ahead.
36th minute: Australia earn and convert a penalty stroke, making it 3-0.
Second half: India fight back with penalty corner goals from Deepika and Neha.
Final quarter: India pile on the pressure with multiple penalty corners but can’t find the equaliser.
India’s Spirited Comeback Falls Short
Refusing to back down, India regrouped in the second half. Deepika and Neha both found the net through well-executed penalty corners, narrowing the gap to 3-2 and setting up a tense finish. The Indian forwards pressed relentlessly, earning several penalty corners in the final quarter. However, Australia’s defence stood tall, denying India the crucial equaliser.
What Went Right for India
- Effective penalty corner routines in the second half.
- Improved attacking play and circle penetrations as the match progressed.
- Resilience and fighting spirit after going 3-0 down.
Areas for Improvement
- Defensive lapses in the first half allowed Australia to build a lead.
- Conversion rate from penalty corners in the closing stages.
What’s Next for India in the FIH Women’s Pro League?
India will look to bounce back quickly as they face Australia again on June 15, followed by matches against Argentina and Belgium in the European leg of the Pro League. With their fighting display in London, the Indian team has shown they can challenge top sides and will aim to convert close contests into victories as the tournament progresses.
Upcoming Fixtures (London Leg)
- India vs Australia: June 15, 2025
- Argentina vs India: June 17, 2025
- India vs Argentina: June 18, 2025
FAQs: India vs Australia, FIH Women’s Pro League 2024-25
1. Who scored for India in the 2-3 loss to Australia?
Deepika and Neha scored for India, both converting penalty corners in the second half.
2. Where was the India vs Australia FIH Women’s Pro League match played?
The match took place at the Lee Valley Hockey & Tennis Centre in London.
3. How did Australia build their lead in the match?
Australia scored through a field goal by Courtney Schonell and a penalty stroke, taking a 3-0 lead before India’s comeback.
4. What are India’s next fixtures in the FIH Women’s Pro League?
India will play Australia again on June 15, followed by matches against Argentina and Belgium in the European leg.
5. How did India perform in the final quarter?
India dominated the final quarter, earning multiple penalty corners, but were unable to convert them into an equalising goal.
Conclusion
India’s women’s hockey team may have lost 2-3 to Australia, but their spirited fightback in the FIH Women’s Pro League opener has set a positive tone for the rest of the European leg. With another clash against Australia on the horizon, the Indian squad will look to build on their strengths, sharpen their finishing, and turn close games into crucial wins. Fans can expect more thrilling action as the Pro League continues.
