Deepika Sehrawat Shatters Records with Eight Goals in Asian Games Opener

Historic Performance by Deepika Sehrawat

In a remarkable display of skill, Indian women's hockey player Deepika Sehrawat scored eight goals during the team's 19-0 victory over Uzbekistan in their opening match at the Asian Games 2026. This outstanding performance has filled her family in Rohtak with immense pride, as her father, Jagdish Sehrawat, praised the entire team's effort in achieving such a significant win.

Deepika's Record-Breaking Goals

Deepika's goals came at the 8th, 22nd, 25th, 33rd, 36th, 38th, 41st, and 54th minutes, setting a new world record for the most goals scored by a female player in the history of the Asian Games. Her contribution included five goals from penalty corners, showcasing India's dominance in the tournament.

Family's Pride and Team Spirit

In an interview, Jagdish expressed that the entire team deserves credit for the victory, emphasizing that Deepika's achievement is a proud moment not just for their family but for the entire nation. He noted that this win would uplift the players' confidence and expressed hope for continued success in the tournament.

"Every Indian feels proud today. The women's team is performing exceptionally well, and we hope they maintain this momentum. The girls' confidence must have soared after this match, and our blessings are with them," he stated.

Confidence in Winning Gold

Jagdish also conveyed his optimism regarding India's chances of clinching the gold medal, stating, "We are definitely in contention for the gold medal. It ultimately depends on the conditions and the team's temperament on the day of the match. We remain hopeful." He added that Deepika's eight-goal achievement is a significant milestone in her career, bringing pride to both the family and the nation.

Team Effort Acknowledged

Deepika's brother, Pravesh Sehrawat, echoed the sentiment of teamwork, stating, "While setting an individual record is commendable, hockey is a team sport, and the entire team's contribution is vital. We are thrilled with the team's overall performance."

Jagdish acknowledged the tough competition ahead, particularly from Olympic medalist teams like China, but reiterated that the goal remains to secure the gold medal.

India's Commanding Victory Over Uzbekistan

In the match against Uzbekistan, Lalremsiami initiated the scoring in the sixth minute after a rebound from Navneet Kaur's attempt. Deepika quickly followed with a powerful strike, and Ishika added another goal, bringing the score to 3-0 by the end of the first quarter.

India's offensive continued in the second quarter, with Neha scoring a stunning reverse-hit goal, followed by Deepika's second goal from a penalty corner. The team went into halftime with an impressive 8-0 lead.

The third quarter saw Deepika score four more goals, all from penalty corners, while Ishika, Sakshi Rana, and Lalthantluangi also contributed to the score, leading to a 15-0 advantage.

In the final quarter, Navneet Kaur added another goal, and both Deepika and Ishika completed their hat-tricks. The match concluded with Deepika scoring eight goals, Ishika netting three, and Neha and Lalthantluangi contributing two each, marking a powerful start to India's campaign.