The Indian women’s hockey team produced a dominant performance to beat South Africa 6-1 at the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium & Netherlands 2026 on Tuesday, moving to the top of Pool D on goal difference.
The victory was India’s first of the tournament and kept them unbeaten after their opening 2-2 draw against 2024 Olympic silver medallists China. India now have four points from two matches and sit at the summit of the pool on goal difference.
India controlled the contest from the outset, combining quick passing with aggressive attacking runs and sustained pressure inside the South African circle.
Sunelita Toppo opened the scoring in the 11th minute, finishing from close range after Sakshi Rana’s attempt found its way towards the far post.
India doubled their advantage six minutes later when Navneet Kaur converted a penalty corner with a powerful low slap hit.
The Indian attack continued to dominate, and Sushila Chanu made it 3-0 in the 25th minute, getting the decisive touch after Deepika’s drag-flick took a deflection off the first rusher.
South Africa struggled to contain India’s movement and intensity as the hosts took a commanding three-goal lead into half-time.
India resumed the second half with the same attacking intent. Deepika added the fourth goal in the 38th minute with a superb backhand tomahawk into the bottom corner after a well-worked move involving Navneet and Baljeet Kaur.
The third quarter saw India pull further away, with two goals in as many minutes. Lalremsiami scored in the 44th minute after receiving an aerial pass from Neha, cutting onto her reverse and finding the far corner.
A minute later, Sakshi Rana completed India’s sixth goal after reacting quickest to a rebound following Ishika Chaudhary’s effort against the post.
With six different players on the scoresheet, India’s attacking depth was on full display as they entered the final quarter with a commanding 6-0 lead.
South Africa managed a consolation goal in the 55th minute when Kayla de Waal reacted sharply at the far post to convert after a deflected drag-flick from Pearce.
India remained composed in the closing stages to secure a comprehensive 6-1 victory and three valuable points.
The result puts India in a strong position in Pool D as they continue their push for a place in the next stage. They will conclude their pool campaign against England on August 20, with the team aiming to carry the momentum from their emphatic win into the crucial encounter.
