Lausanne, Switzerland : In a dramatic day of FIH Hockey Pro League action, Belgium secured victories over Australia in both men’s and women’s encounters under the searing heat of Santiago del Estero, Argentina. The Belgian men triumphed in a nerve-wracking double sudden-death shootout, while the Red Panthers controlled their match to claim a 2-1 win against the Hockeyroos.
Meanwhile, in Bhubaneswar, the Netherlands women’s team made a resounding return to international competition, overpowering England 5-1 in their first match of the year. Germany’s women also put on a commanding display against hosts India, while India’s men rallied from a goal down to defeat Ireland.
(Women’s) Netherlands 5-1 England
The Dutch women showcased their dominance in scorching 32-degree heat, dismantling England with a second-half blitz.
After an evenly contested opening quarter, the Netherlands broke the deadlock in the 27th minute when Joosje Burg’s superb deflection finally breached England goalkeeper Sabbie Heesh’s resistance.
The third quarter proved decisive as the Dutch piled on the pressure. Frédérique Matla orchestrated a slick attacking move in the 33rd minute, drawing defenders before setting up Pien Dicke for a precise finish. Luna Fokke then converted a penalty corner, and Matla added a fourth with a sharp finish from the baseline.
Matla continued to torment England’s defence, setting up Fay van der Elst for a simple tap-in in the 50th minute. Olivia Hamilton pulled one back for England late on, but the Dutch had already sealed an emphatic victory in their first match since December.
