NEW DELHI: In a dominating performance, India secured a resounding 11-1 victory over New Zealand in the FIH Women's Hockey5s World Cup in Muscat, propelling them into the semifinals.
Despite New Zealand taking an early lead with a goal from Oriwa Hepi in the 2nd minute, India swiftly responded as Deepika Soreng netted an impressive equaliser within fifteen seconds.
The momentum shifted decisively in India's favor with Rutaja Pisal's goal in the 9th minute, followed by Mumtaz Khan's quick back-to-back strikes in the 10th and 11th minutes.
The goal spree continued as Mariana Kujur scored twice in the 13th and 14th minutes, concluding the first half with India commanding a 6-1 lead.
India maintained control in the second half, with Rutaja notching her second goal in the 22nd minute. Deepika secured her second goal in the 25th minute, and Rutaja added two more goals in the 26th and 28th minutes.
Deepika completed her hat-trick with a goal in the 29th minute, sealing India's convincing 11-1 triumph over New Zealand and securing their spot in the semifinals.
India face South Africa in the semis.
(With PTI inputs)
