Ranchi, 27/01/2025: The Odisha Warriors became the champions of the Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) for the first time with a 2-1 win over Soorma Hockey Club in a thrilling final at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Stadium in Ranchi. The victory was a big moment for coach Janneke Schopman, who had faced disappointment in the past against Soorma’s coach, Jude Menezes. Ruturaj Dadaso Pisal was the hero of the match, scoring both goals for the Warriors.
Soorma Hockey Club, led by Salima Tete, started strong and controlled possession in the first quarter. Despite some pressure from the Warriors and a yellow card for Soorma, there were no goals in the first period. The Warriors bounced back in the second quarter when Rutuja intercepted a high pass and scored a stunning field goal, leaving the best goalkeeper of the tournament, Savita, surprised.
Soorma quickly responded, earning a penalty corner which they successfully converted through Penny Squib, bringing the score level at 1-1 by the third quarter. Soorma then pressed hard in the third quarter, creating more chances, but the Warriors held strong. In the final minutes, with just over four minutes remaining, Rutuja scored again, setting up a 2-1 lead for the Warriors and securing the win.
Soorma Hockey Club players took home the individual awards: Jyoti was named Player of the Tournament, Savita won Best Goalkeeper, and Sonam was recognized as the Upcoming Player of the Tournament. The Top Scorer award was shared between Odisha’s Yibbi Jansen and Soorma’s Charlotte Englebert. The Odisha Warriors’ historic win capped off an exciting season of women’s hockey in India.
