The Indian women's hockey team made history today by qualifying for the Olympic Games semifinals for the first time, defeating three-time champions Australia by a solitary goal on Day 10 of the Tokyo Olympics 2021. A day after the Indian men's team returned to the Olympic semifinals after a 49-year absence, the world no. 9 women's team also made history with outstandingly rugged performance.
The odds were stacked against India going into the match, as world no.2 Australia, a formidable unbeaten opponent, awaited them in the final four rounds.
But, determined to make a point, the Indians produced a strong and brave performance to eke out a narrow victory over the Hockeyroos.
Drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur rose to the occasion in the 22nd minute, converting India's lone penalty corner to surprise the Australians.
But, determined to make a point, the Indians produced a strong and brave performance to eke out a narrow victory over the Hockeyroos.
Drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur rose to the occasion in the 22nd minute, converting India's lone penalty corner to surprise the Australians.
Current Sports Minister Anurag Thakur tweeted, "Splendid Performance!!! Women's Hockey #TeamIndia is scripting history with every move at #Tokyo2020 ! We're into the semi-finals of the Olympics for the 1st time beating Australia. 130 crore Indians to the Women's Hockey Team - "we're right behind you"!"
Meanwhile, Minister of Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju expressed his happiness on social media and tweeted, "India's dream is coming to reality! Our Women's Hockey Team has defeated Australia! India's Men's and Women's teams have reached semi-finals at #Tokyo2020 Olympics! I have no words to express my excitement and happiness!"
