The Indian junior women’s hockey team ended their FIH Hockey Junior Women’s World Cup 2025 journey with a 1-2 loss against Spain in the 9th/10th place classification match held at the Centro Deportivo de Hockey Cesped, Estadio Nacional, in Santiago, Chile.
The match began with high tempo and balanced exchanges.
Spain came close to taking the lead midway through the first quarter, breaking through India’s defence with only the goalkeeper to beat.
Indian goalkeeper Nidhi made two remarkable back-to-back saves to keep Spain at bay.
In the 14th minute, Spain earned the first penalty corner of the match, but Nidhi once again held firm to ensure the score remained 0-0.
Spain Strikes First
Early in the second quarter, Spain capitalised on a rapid counterattack.
Sara Carmona Ramos dribbled skilfully into the circle before sending a sharp pass that Natalia Vilanova deflected into the Indian net in the 16th minute.
India attempted to respond with a couple of promising moves, but Spain maintained strong discipline and avoided conceding penalty corners, preserving their 1-0 advantage.
The third quarter saw dramatic moments for India. Sonam intercepted a pass and found the back of the net with a powerful strike, sparking brief celebrations.
However, Spain’s video referral proved successful as the umpire identified a back-stick infringement, disallowing the goal.
Adding to India’s frustration, Spain won a penalty corner in the 36th minute, and Esther Canales converted with a precise flick, extending their lead to 2-0.
India responded strongly and earned back-to-back penalty corners in the 41st minute, with Kanika Siwach delivering a clean strike to pull a goal back and end the quarter at 1-2.
India Pushes Hard but Falls Short
Entering the final quarter of their campaign, India increased their intensity and pressed forward in search of the equaliser.
They nearly levelled the score when Ishika unleashed a fierce backhand shot that beat the goalkeeper, only to be stopped on the goal line by a Spanish defender.
Despite India’s determined efforts, Spain defended resolutely in the closing minutes and held on to their narrow lead until the final whistle.
India’s 10th-place finish reflects moments of promise as well as areas for improvement.
The team displayed resilience and attacking spirit throughout the match, offering valuable experience for future international competitions.
Also Read: Triumph For Germany As They Clinch Record 8th Junior World Cup Title After Shoot-Out Win
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