In a series of big events, the Indian women's hockey team delivered a strong offensive performance to defeat South Africa 6-1 in their second Pool D fixture of the 2026 FIH Women's Hockey World Cup at the Wagener Stadion on August 18, Tuesday. Coming after a fighting 2-2 draw against China, the Savita Punia-led side dictated the game from the start to secure three key points.
Dominant performance from Team India
The opening half set the tone for India's dominance, starting in the 11th minute when Sunelita Toppo pounced on a loose ball inside the striking circle to break the deadlock. India doubled their advantage in the 17th mite as the Navneet Kaur converted a well-worked Penalty corner routine, before veteran midfielder Sushila Chanu deflected home another penalty corner sequence in the second quarter to give India a 3-0 lead.
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India put the result beyond doubt in an explosive third quarter, smashing three goals in quick succession. Deepika made it 4-0 with a sharp strike from a close angle, followed shortly by Lalremsiami slipping the ball past the South African keeper for India's fifth. Sakshi Rana capped off the string period to stretch the lead to 6-0 before the final break.
Consolation goal for South Africa
South Africa managed to pull a goal back in the fourth quarter to break the clean sheet, taking advantage of a brief defensive error from the Indian team to make it 6-1.