Tokyo Olympics Hockey: India books maiden Olympic semifinal berth with a scintillating performance against Australia
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Indian women's hockey team
India has pulled off a major upset in the Tokyo Olympics with a historic win in their maiden Olympic quarterfinals. They beat three-time gold medalists Australia 1-0 to book a semifinal berth, yet another historic achievement. The Indian team is turning out to be a true darkhorse in the tournament with three wins on the trot going into the semifinal.
India took Australia by surprise as they dominated the first half. The Indian women’s hockey team looked a bit rusty early in the first quarter as the Aussies pressed high for an early goal. But it was not to be the case as the Women in Blue held the fort not giving the opposition any chance to shoot.
The second quarter saw a rejuvenated Indian side playing with great intent. And it was this aggression that saw them take the lead over Pool B toppers in the quarterfinals. Dragflicker Gurjit Kaur turned a penalty corner in the 22nd minute to give her side the lead. India then played out quarter sensibly by retaining possession and some smart interceptions to go into the second half with a lead.
Indian women’s hockey team script history at Tokyo Olympics
The third quarter witnessed a defensive masterclass from the Indian woman as Australia peppered their opponents with wave after wave of attack. Despite their relentless efforts, Indian women defended with a cool head to maintain their lead. The fourth quarter saw a flurry of penalty corners from the Aussies but the Indian wall Savita Punia was up to the task every time.
The winner of the match will face Argentina in the semifinal. The South Americans hammered Germany in a one-sided quarterfinal to book a berth in the semis.
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Anshuman Mahapatra
(1496 Articles Published)