Women's FIH Pro League 2024-25: India's problem rises after loss to China; relegation threat looms

Salima Tete-led Indian women’s hockey team on the verge of relegation after loss to China in the FIH Pro League 2024-25.

China registered a determined 3-0 win against the Indian women’s hockey team on Saturday in Berlin, pushing them on the brink of relegation from the Women’s FIH Pro League 2024-25. It was a disappointing outing for India, who missed converting from the chances, including a penalty stroke in the fourth quarter when Deepika hit the post.

“We are giving away too many soft PCs,” was Chief Coach Harendra Singh’s half-time analysis. From only six chances in the circle for China, they scored thrice with goals from Yang Chen (21′), Ying Zhang (26′) – both these goals from PC, while Anhui Yu (45′) scored a field goal.

“Execution and good structure are what helped us win today,” was China’s immediate reaction to the victory, which continues to firmly place them in the fourth position on the points table while India remains in the ninth place. A favorable result in the upcoming game between seventh-placed Germany and eighth-placed England would give some hope for India.

India made a good start, winning a PC as early as the 4th minute, but failed to convert. China took the lead in the 21st minute through a PC converted by Yang. She gave Savita no chance of saving it. Five minutes later, Ying pumped one in to make it 2-0 by halftime, again through a PC. This one was a complete defensive collapse in PC, with the ball going in between defender Jyoti Singh’s legs.

China’s third goal was a finely-struck field goal by Anhui Yu, following which India had no hope of bouncing back. Overall, the performance of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team has been disappointing, and they will try their best to end their campaign with a win when they face China again tomorrow.

Women’s FIH Pro League 2024-25 all matches will be streamed live on Jio Hotstar and broadcast on Star Sports Select.

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