The Indian Women’s Hockey Team showed resilience and grit in a dramatic comeback to draw 2–2 against Argentina in their FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 encounter, but fell short in the shootout, conceding 0–2 at the Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre in London on Wednesday.
Facing a two-goal deficit deep into the match, India found a spark in the second half through goals from Navneet Kaur and Deepika, who cancelled out Agustina Gorzelany’s brace for Argentina. However, their spirited fightback couldn’t deliver the bonus point in the ensuing shootout.
The game began in cagey fashion, with both teams struggling to create clear chances in the opening quarter. Argentina’s disciplined high press unsettled the Indian forwards early on, but India responded with smart ball movement and pressing of their own. Sharmila Devi made a strong run into the circle while Sunelita Toppo’s interception briefly tilted momentum India’s way, though neither effort translated into a shot on target.
Argentina made their breakthrough in the 27th minute from a penalty corner, with Gorzelany’s powerful drag-flick piercing through the Indian defence. The South Americans then turned the screw after halftime, exploiting space with width and slick passing. Gorzelany doubled the lead with another clinical finish from a set-piece in the 37th minute.
India, under pressure, showed admirable composure. Goalkeeper Savita kept hopes alive with a brilliant reflex save from Victoria Granatto’s close-range attempt. On the other end, India’s attacking energy began to build. Deepika fired a stinging shot from distance, only for Argentina’s Cosentino to make another crucial save.
India’s breakthrough came in the 50th minute. Navneet Kaur, picking up the ball on the edge of the circle, danced past a defender and rifled the ball into the net to halve the deficit. The equaliser followed soon after from a penalty corner, as Deepika smashed home in the 56th minute, capping off a relentless Indian assault.
Despite the heroics, India couldn’t carry the momentum into the shootout. Brisa Bruggesser and Sophia Cairo scored for Argentina, while India’s attempts failed to beat Cosentino.
Though they missed out on the bonus point, India’s comeback demonstrated determination and depth, offering positives ahead of the next Pro League fixtures.
