Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team Dominates Namibia in World Cup Opener

In a remarkable display of skill, the Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team triumphed over Namibia with a staggering 13-0 victory in their FIH Junior Women's World Cup opener. Hina Bano and Kanika Siwach each scored hat-tricks, while several other players contributed to the scoreline. This dominant performance not only showcased India's talent but also positioned them at the top of the tournament standings. Read on to discover the highlights of this thrilling match and the players who made it possible.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 2, 2025, 02:03 IST

India's Impressive Start at the FIH Junior Women's World Cup

The Indian Junior Women's Hockey Team kicked off their FIH Junior Women's World Cup journey with an astounding 13-0 victory over Namibia at the Centro Deportivo de Hockey Cesped, Estadio Nacional in Santiago on Monday.

Hina Bano and Kanika Siwach both showcased their skills by scoring hat-tricks, with Hina netting goals at the 35th, 35th, and 45th minutes, while Kanika scored at the 12th, 30th, and 45th minutes. Additionally, Sakshi Rana contributed with two goals at the 10th and 23rd minutes. Other players who found the net included Binima Dhan (14'), Sonam (14'), Sakshi Shukla (27'), Ishika (36'), and Manisha (60'). This victory propelled India to the top of the standings, according to a statement from Hockey India.

From the outset, India was aggressive, taking their first shot on goal within the first thirty seconds, forcing a save from the Namibian goalkeeper. They maintained their offensive pressure, earning a Penalty Corner with just under six minutes remaining in the first quarter.

India capitalized on their early momentum, scoring four goals in a span of just four minutes to seize control of the match. Sakshi Rana opened the scoring with a stunning reverse flick at the 10th minute, followed by Kanika Siwach doubling the lead with a powerful shot just two minutes later.

Binima Dhan added a third goal with a quick run and finish at the 14th minute, and Sonam scored the fourth shortly after, resulting in a commanding 4-0 lead for India after the first quarter.

With a solid advantage, India continued to dominate. Sakshi Rana scored her second goal at the 23rd minute with a remarkable run and a powerful strike. Although Namibia attempted to respond, they were consistently thwarted by India's strong midfield.

India extended their lead to six with Sakshi Shukla converting a dragflick from a Penalty Corner at the 27th minute. Kanika Siwach then scored her second goal just before halftime, bringing the score to 7-0.

As the second half began, India maintained their dominance. Hina Bano scored her first tournament goal with a fierce shot into the top corner at the 35th minute, quickly adding another just a minute later after capitalizing on a Namibian restart error.

Ishika scored the tenth goal after a rebound from a Penalty Corner at the 36th minute, further solidifying India's control. Hina Bano completed her hat-trick at the 45th minute, followed by Kanika Siwach scoring her third from another Penalty Corner, establishing a 12-0 lead for India after three quarters.

In the final quarter, India made several substitutions but continued to create scoring opportunities. Despite Namibia's efforts to hold off further goals, Manisha scored from a Penalty Corner at the 60th minute, concluding the match with a resounding 13-0 victory for India in their opening game.