Hockey WC: India hammer Germany 3-1 to seal best finish since 1974

India's women's hockey team concluded their World Cup campaign on an impressive note by defeating Germany 3-1 in a fifth-sixth place classification match at the Wagener Hockey Stadium. This victory marked India's best-ever finish at the tournament in 52 years. The game was closely contested in the opening half, with neither side managing a breakthrough. Germany had more opportunities from penalty corners, but their execution was not precise.

India's offensive surge came during the second quarter when Navneet Kaur and Salima Tete combined to put pressure on the German goalkeeper, Finja Starck. Despite her best efforts, Starck failed to stop the Indian attackers. India capitalized on this momentum, breaking the deadlock in the 43rd minute with a composed reverse-lift that beat Starck.

Navneet then doubled India's lead a minute later through a touch-and-slap finish, showing superb composure to outmaneuver the goalkeeper. Following up with another goal, she showcased her skill by dribbling past the goalkeeper before lifting the ball over her.

Entering the final quarter with a commanding 3-0 lead, India maintained their discipline and defense. Savita made two crucial saves in the closing stages, but Germany managed to equalize just three minutes from the end when Krings converted a rebound. Despite this late effort, India held on to secure a 3-1 victory, clinching fifth place and completing a memorable campaign. This win marked India's best World Cup finish since their fifth-place performance at the inaugural tournament in 1974.