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Savita Punia-led India beat Italy 5-0 in their last Group clash to seal a spot in the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers 2024. India took another step towards sealing their spot in the Paris Olympics 2024 as the USA are the other team from Pool B to reach the last four after beating New Zealand 1-0.
Salima Tete earned a penalty corner in the first minute itself. Udita was able to put it past Italy's Ines Caruso to get India an early lead. India were attacking in the first quarter but could not double their lead. Italy's defenders did not let India dominate despite the home side's relentless attacks. The goalfest started in the third quarter. Deepika doubled India's lead. Just before the end of the third quarter, Salima Tete got the perfect pass from Navneet as she pierced the gap to beat the goalkeeper.
Navneet joined the party in the fourth quarter. She made her run from the right corner flag. She lost control for a while but was able to push it past the goalkeeper to make it 4-0. Udita in her 100th appearance on the international stage converted a penalty corner into a goal.
With just seconds left for the final whistle, Italy earned a penalty corner and Lara Oveido managed to deflect it into the net. Italy opened their score too late as India won the game 5-1.
Udita was adjudged ‘Player of the match’ for her performance in the milestone 100th game.
Another step towards Olympic qualification
India will face Germany in the semifinal on January 18. If India manage to reach the final, they will be guaranteed a spot irrespective of the result of the match. If India lose to Germany, they will still have another chance to book their spot in the Olympics. The top three teams will qualify for the event and India will need to beat the loser of the other semi-final in the third-place playoff to book their berth.
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