Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026: The Indian women’s hockey team began its campaign in the FIH Hockey World Cup Qualifiers 2026 with an impressive 4-0 victory over Uruguay at the G. M. C. Balayogi Hockey Ground in the Gachibowli Sports Complex, Hyderabad, on Saturday.

India produced a commanding performance throughout the match, with Sunelita Toppo (21'), Ishika (40'), Lalremsiami (49'), and Rutuja Dadaso Pisal (58') scoring to secure a comfortable win in their opening fixture of the tournament.

The home side started the match aggressively, creating several attacking opportunities in the opening quarter. India earned their first penalty corner in the fourth minute after consistent pressure in the circle. Although Udita managed to find the net during a cleverly executed variation, the attempt was ruled out as the shot went slightly above the allowed height.

Uruguay attempted to threaten through counter-attacks, but India’s defensive unit remained disciplined and prevented any major chances.

India eventually broke the deadlock in the 21st minute when Sunelita Toppo reacted quickly to a rebound from a penalty corner and tapped the ball into the net. Shortly afterwards, India won another penalty corner, but Uruguay’s defence successfully blocked Annu’s drag-flick attempt.

The Indian team maintained strong possession in the second quarter. Uruguay earned their first penalty corner in the 29th minute, but the Indian defence dealt with the situation effectively to protect their narrow lead.

After the break, India continued to dominate proceedings. In the 36th minute, Navneet Kaur found herself unmarked near the goal, but Uruguay goalkeeper Maria Bate produced an excellent save to deny the opportunity.

India doubled their advantage in the 40th minute when Sakshi Rana delivered an accurate pass into the circle, allowing Ishika to calmly guide the ball into the bottom left corner of the goal.

Uruguay also received a penalty corner in the same minute but failed to capitalize.

India extended the lead in the 49th minute as Rutuja Dadaso Pisal advanced down the left flank and passed to Lalremsiami, who carried the ball into the circle and fired a powerful field goal past the goalkeeper.

The scoring was completed in the 58th minute, when Rutuja Dadaso Pisal dribbled through the centre and struck a powerful shot into the net, sealing a convincing victory for the hosts.

India will now prepare for their next match against Scotland on March 9 in the ongoing qualifiers.