India Falls 1–3 to Germany in Junior Women’s World Cup Clash

India endured a 1–3 defeat to Germany in its second match of the FIH Junior Women’s World Cup in Santiago on Wednesday, leaving the team still searching for its first win of the tournament. Hina Bano (58’) scored India’s lone goal, while Germany found the net through Lena Frerichs (5’), Annika Schönhoff (52’) and Martina Reisenegger (59’).

Germany made an early breakthrough, earning a penalty stroke in the fifth minute. Frerichs confidently converted from the spot, giving her side a 1–0 lead. The early setback forced India onto the back foot, yet the team managed to gradually find its rhythm. India began stitching together attacking movements and created promising entries into the circle, but the finishing touch eluded them throughout the opening quarter.

The second quarter continued with high intensity as India pushed hard for an equaliser. Germany, however, earned another penalty stroke late in the first half, offering a chance to extend its advantage. This time, Frerichs missed the opportunity, allowing India to go into halftime trailing by just a single goal at 1–0.

India came out of the break with renewed energy, increasing pressure on the German defence while maintaining better ball circulation in midfield. Still, despite improved tempo and more circle penetrations, India could not convert its chances, and the match entered the final quarter with Germany maintaining its slender lead.

Germany eventually doubled its advantage when Annika Schönhoff tapped in from close range in the 52nd minute, capitalising on a defensive lapse. With the clock winding down, India finally found a breakthrough. Hina Bano delivered a crucial touch off a penalty corner in the 58th minute, raising hopes of a late comeback.

Those hopes were short-lived. Just a minute later, Martina Reisenegger restored Germany’s two-goal cushion, sealing the final result at 3–1 and securing all three points for her team.

Despite the defeat, India showed moments of resilience and promising buildup play, though the inability to convert chances proved costly. The team will now aim to regroup quickly before facing Ireland on December 5, a match that becomes crucial for keeping their campaign on track.