Women’s Hockey: Thank You, Girls! History has been made

Indian Women’s Hockey Team on Monday carved its name in history as they entered the semi-finals of the Olympic Games for the first time after registering a thumping victory against three-time World Champion and World No. 2 Australia 1-0.

The Indian Women’s Hockey team defeated top-seeded Australia 1-0 and registered the seat for their first-ever semifinals of the Women’s Hockey Match at Oi Hockey Stadium, Tokyo.

The Women’s Hockey team led by Captain Rani Rampal strongly defended their side and kept the Aussies at bay throughout the match.

Wishes pour in from all quarters of the society

Post-match, wishes poured in from all corners of the country for the Women’s hockey team.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Anurag Thakur took to Twitter and congratulated team India for their splendid performance.

“We’re into the semi-finals of the Olympics for the first time beating Australia.
130 crore Indians to the Women’s Hockey Team- We’re right behind you!,” Union Minister Anurag Thakur said.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also extended his wishes to the winning team.

“India’s dream is coming to reality! Our Women’s Hockey Team has defeated Australia! I have no words to express my excitement and happiness!” Union Minister Rijiju tweeted.

Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O’ Farrell congratulated the Women’s Hockey Team and also extended wishes for the coming semi & grand finals.

“Well done India!! Was a tough Hockey match, but your defence held out until the end. Savita Punia, the ‘Great Wall of India’- could not be beaten! Best of luck in the semi and grand finals,” the Australian High Commissioner to India said.

The lone goal by Gurjit Kaur gave India a lead on the points table

After the goalless first quarter, Penalty Corner specialist Gurjit Kaur gave India a 1-0 lead against their Australian counterpart as she converted a penalty corner into the goal in the 22nd minute (second Quarter).

Apart from the lone goal struck by Gurjit Kaur which became the highlight of the day, one cannot also ignore the stellar performance by seasoned goalkeeper Savita Punia.

Punia registered a 100% accuracy rate with 2/2 saves, keeping the Aussies at bay.

Whereas, the Australian side failed to equalize the score and missed all of the Penalty Corner strokes.

India to take on Argentina in the Semi-Finals

The Indian Women’s Hockey team to play against Argentina in the semi-finals- on August 4 at Oi Hockey Stadium, Tokyo.

On the other hand, the Men’s Hockey Team on Sunday defeated Great Britain 3-1 and qualified for semi-finals after long 49 year wait.