The Poligras Magic Skill Award nomination recognises Indian women’s hockey forward Deepika for her exceptional solo field goal against the World No 1 ranked Netherlands during the 2024-25 FIH Hockey Pro League season.
On 5 July, the organisers announced the nominations and invited fans worldwide to vote for their favourite skill until 14 July at 3:29 AM IST.
The iconic goal at the Bhubaneswar leg
Deepika’s memorable moment occurred during the Bhubaneswar leg of the league in February 2025 at the Kalinga Stadium.
The Indian team faced the Netherlands in a fiercely contested match that ended 2-2, leading to a shootout victory for India.
In the 35th minute, with India trailing by two goals, Deepika showcased superb skill and determination.
She dribbled expertly down the left flank, weaving around the Dutch defence, kissed the baseline, and cleverly dinked the ball over an opponent’s stick before striking it past the goalkeeper to equalise.
This remarkable effort proved pivotal in turning the match around.
Reflecting on the nomination, Deepika, aged 21, said, “That goal against the Netherlands is one of the most special moments of my career. Everything just clicked, and it helped us equalise and win the game in the shootout. I’m honoured to be nominated for the Poligras Magic Skill Award and grateful for the support of our fans. Moments like these are what we train so hard for. Your votes and support motivate me to keep pushing my limits and give my all for India. I also want to thank my coaches, the support staff, and especially my teammates for their constant encouragement and belief in me.”
Other women nominees
The Poligras Magic Skill Award nominations also include two other remarkable women’s hockey moments alongside Deepika.
Patricia Alvarez of Spain earned a nomination for her incredible 3D skills and goal against Australia, where she showed great technique by juggling the ball over the goalkeeper before scoring.
The third nomination celebrates Australia’s women’s team for a brilliant team goal against England.
The Hockeyroos executed a flawless passage of five passes in the attacking half, culminating in a spectacular strike that found the net.
Global fan vote
The Poligras Magic Skill Award nominations also include two other remarkable women’s hockey moments alongside Deepika.
Fans around the world will decide the Poligras Magic Skill Award winner based on the best moment and goal of the season.
Voting stays open until 14 July 2025, and hockey enthusiasts are encouraged to vote for the most impressive skill of the 2024-25 FIH Hockey Pro League season.
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