India Defeats Wales 3-1 to Stay in Top 10 Race at Junior Women's World Cup

By siliconindia  |  Monday, 08 December 2025, 12:56:30 PM IST

India Defeats Wales 3-1 to Stay in Top 10 Race at Junior Women's World Cup
  • India beats Wales 3-1 in the 9/16 classification match at the Junior Women’s World Cup
  • Goals from Hina Bano, Sunelita Toppo and Ishika secure a comfortable victory for India
  • With this win, India stays in the race for a top-10 finish and will face Uruguay next on December 9

India kept their hopes of a top-10 finish alive with a solid 3-1 win over Wales in the 9/16 classification match at the FIH Junior Women’s World Cup in Santiago. The team delivered a confident performance, backed by early control, steady buildup and strong defensive work.

India started the match with high intensity, winning a penalty corner in the opening 30 seconds and controlling possession through sharp movement between the lines. Despite creating several early chances, they struggled to convert. Wales had an opportunity to go ahead through a penalty stroke, but goalkeeper Nidhi pulled off an excellent save to keep the game level.

The breakthrough came in the 14th minute when Hina Bano finished a clean move created by Sakshi Rana. India continued to push in the second quarter and were rewarded again when Sunelita Toppo scored off a rebound from a penalty corner in the 24th minute. With 14 circle entries in the first half, India firmly deserved their 2–0 lead at the break.

Also Read: India U-17 Team Beats Iran to Clinch AFC Asian Cup Qualification

India extended their advantage early in the third quarter as Ishika reacted quickly to a loose ball from the Welsh goalkeeper, making it 3–0. The team maintained strong control of the match, pressing high and stretching Wales with coordinated passing and disciplined defense.

Wales found a late consolation goal through Eloise Moat in the 52nd minute, but India comfortably held their ground to close out the match.

With this win, India now moves on to face Uruguay on December 9, aiming to finish the tournament on a high note.

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