Odisha Warriors Win First Women’s Hockey India League Title

The Odisha Warriors, led by Janneke Schopman, clinched the inaugural Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) title, emerging victorious in a thrilling final against Soorma Hockey Club with a 2-1 scoreline. This match, held at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Stadium in Ranchi, marked a redemption moment for Schopman, who had previously faced defeat with India against Japan. The Warriors’ resilience and tactical brilliance, particularly from Ruturaj Dadaso Pisal, were key to their historic win.

Key Highlights

Inaugural Champions

• Odisha Warriors became the first-ever champions of the Women’s Hockey India League, defeating Soorma Hockey Club 2-1 in the final.

Tactical Brilliance

• The game was a test of strategy, as Soorma HC had the early advantage, but Odisha’s composure and strategic goals turned the tide.
• Ruturaj Dadaso Pisal’s Heroics: Pisal emerged as an unlikely hero, scoring crucial goals to seal the victory for the Warriors.
• Soorma HC’s Fightback: Despite Odisha’s lead, Soorma HC fought hard, managing a penalty corner goal to equalize and pushing hard in the third and final quarters.

Individual Honors

• Soorma HC’s players bagged major individual awards with Jyoti (Player of the Tournament), Savita (Best Goalkeeper), and Sonam (Upcoming Player).
• The Top Scorer award was shared between Yibbi Jansen (Odisha Warriors) and Charlotte Englebert (Soorma HC).

Match Summary

• First Quarter: Soorma HC dominated possession, but no goals were scored. Odisha Warriors showed signs of resilience.
• Second Quarter: Odisha Warriors made a comeback, with Ruturaj Pisal scoring a brilliant field goal to give them a 1-0 lead.
• Soorma HC Equalizer: Soorma HC earned a penalty corner, which was converted by Penny Squib, making it 1-1.
• Third Quarter: Soorma HC pressed hard but couldn’t find the back of the net, while Odisha Warriors maintained their lead.
• Final Quarter: Ruturaj Pisal scored the decisive goal with just over four minutes remaining, securing Odisha’s victory.
• Despite Soorma HC’s continuous attacking play and defensive pressure, Odisha Warriors stood firm to win the inaugural HIL title.