Commonwealth Games: Indian women's hockey team defeats Canada, reaches semis
The Indian women's hockey team reached the semi-finals after beating Canada 3-2 at the 2022 Commonwealth Games (CWG). Lalremsiami Hmarzote scored the final goal, which helped India break a tie with Canada. Salima Tete and Navneet Kaur were also among goals for India. The Women in Blue would face Australia in the penultimate clash on Friday. Here are further details.
How did the match pan out?
Salima drew first blood for India just three minutes into the game. She scored a goal on the rebound after tapping the ball on the far post. Navneet added a second for India in the second quarter before Canada pulled one back. Hannah Haughn scored the much-needed equalizer for Canada in the third quarter. However, Lalremsiami helped India regain the lead eventually.
A look at India's run
Team India started its campaign with a 5-0 win over Ghana in the Pool A fixture. India then overcame Wales 3-1 before losing 1-3 to England. The Indian women qualified for the semi-final with a 3-2 win over Canada.
A look at the scenario
England had already qualified for the semi-final. They had assured themselves of a semis spot after beating India. The Women in Blue had to beat Canada in order to make it to the semis. Even a draw would have propelled the Canadians to the last four. India would now face Australia in the semis, who have won the gold medal four times.
India bid to end their medal drought
The Indian women's hockey side has not won a medal at the Commonwealth Games in the last 16 years. Their last medal at CWG came in 2006 (silver in Melbourne). They had lost 0-1 to Australia in the final. India won their only other medal at the Games in 2002 (gold in Manchester) when they overcame England in the final.
