In a stunning turn of events at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi on January 27, 2025, Odisha Warriors clinched their first-ever Women’s Hockey India League (HIL) title. The final, which saw the Warriors triumph 2-1 over Soorma Hockey Club, was an intense and thrilling contest, with Rutuja Pisal emerging as the star of the night. Despite going goalless throughout the league phase, Pisal delivered when it mattered most, scoring both goals to lead her team to victory.
Odisha Warriors were the dominant force during the league phase, with a reputation for scoring from penalty corners. However, in the final, the team struggled to create those opportunities and convert them. Soorma Hockey Club, known for their sturdy defense, capitalized on this and managed to score an equalizer through a drag flick. But Pisal’s brilliance was the difference, as she found the back of the net twice, ensuring Odisha’s victory in the championship decider.
A Fairytale Performance from Rutuja Pisal
Rutuja Pisal, who hails from the rural district of Satara in Maharashtra, had been one of the more unassuming players of the tournament. Her goal-scoring feats had been absent throughout the league matches, but she saved her best for the final. In the second quarter, Pisal opened the scoring with a clinical field goal that left Soorma’s goalkeeper with no chance. Her second goal came in the third quarter, a well-timed strike that sealed the match for Odisha Warriors.
Despite the pressure mounting throughout the match, Pisal’s confidence never wavered. “I never imagined I’d score twice in the final. This victory is for the team, and I’m so happy that we could give our fans something to celebrate,” said Pisal, her voice full of emotion after the match.
Soorma Hockey Club’s Determined Fight
Soorma Hockey Club came into the final as the underdogs but played with incredible heart. Their defensive line held up well against Odisha’s attacks, and they were able to score a brilliant equalizer from a drag flick. However, despite their best efforts, they couldn’t break Odisha’s defense or match Pisal’s incredible performance. Soorma’s goalkeeper had an impressive game, but the Warriors’ persistent attacks and Pisal’s clinical finishing proved too much to handle.
Coach Janneke Schopman’s First Title
For Odisha Warriors’ head coach Janneke Schopman, the win is a personal milestone. Schopman, who has been instrumental in shaping the team’s strategies and fostering their growth throughout the inaugural season, expressed immense pride in her players. “It’s an incredible feeling to win the title, and I’m thrilled for Rutuja. She showed great composure and skill in a pressure-filled environment,” said Schopman, who was visibly emotional after the match.
Schopman’s leadership has been a key factor in Odisha’s success. Her tactical brilliance and ability to motivate the team have propelled the Warriors to the top, and this title is a testament to her coaching acumen.
The Road Ahead for Women’s Hockey in India
Odisha Warriors’ victory is a landmark achievement for the Women’s Hockey India League and the sport as a whole. It highlights the growing stature of women’s hockey in India, offering a platform for players like Pisal to shine on a national stage. With the league growing in prominence, the future of women’s hockey in India looks promising, and more players will likely emerge from this tournament to represent the country at international levels.
As the Women’s HIL continues to evolve, Odisha Warriors’ victory sets a high bar for future seasons. The success of teams like Odisha Warriors and the emergence of talented players like Pisal will inspire the next generation of women hockey players in India, paving the way for greater achievements on the global stage.
The Women’s Hockey India League final will be remembered as a thrilling and historic event, with Rutuja Pisal’s performance standing out as the highlight. Odisha Warriors’ 2-1 victory over Soorma Hockey Club marks the beginning of what promises to be an exciting era for women’s hockey in India. With players like Pisal and coaches like Janneke Schopman leading the way, the future looks incredibly bright for the sport in the country.