The first-ever Women’s Hero Hockey India League 2025 concluded with a nail-biting final. Odisha Warriors emerged victorious, defeating JSW Soorma Hockey Club 2-1. The match took place on Sunday at the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi.
Rutuja Dadaso Pisal was the star of the match, scoring both goals for the Warriors. She struck in the 20th and 56th minutes. Meanwhile, Penny Squibb scored for Soorma in the 28th minute to temporarily equalize. However, Rutuja’s decisive goal in the final quarter secured the title.
A Fast-Paced Start
From the start, both teams displayed high intensity. Odisha Warriors made the first circle entry through Freeke Moes. However, Soorma’s defense remained rock-solid, regaining possession and slowing the tempo. Despite some good movement, neither side managed to create clear chances in the first quarter.
The closest opportunity came when Neha found Rutuja near the goal. However, Soorma goalkeeper Savita made a quick charge to deny the shot. As a result, the first quarter ended goalless.
Warriors Break Through
As the second quarter began, both teams continued their midfield battle. Then, a sudden breakthrough changed the momentum. Victoria Sauze’s deflected pass into the circle caught everyone off guard. Rutuja quickly reacted and lofted the ball over Savita, giving the Warriors a 1-0 lead.
Nevertheless, Soorma didn’t back down. They pressed harder and earned a penalty corner with just two minutes left in the quarter. Penny Squibb calmly flicked the ball into the bottom-right corner, leveling the score.
Soorma Dominates Third Quarter
The third quarter saw Soorma take control. Charlotte Englebert and Olivia Shannon consistently tested Warriors’ goalkeeper Jocelyn Bartram. Within five minutes, they earned another penalty corner. However, Jyoti’s shot was deflected away by the Warriors’ defense.
In response, Odisha Warriors tried to regain momentum. Both teams attacked relentlessly, creating an end-to-end game. However, the defenses stood firm, and the quarter ended without any goals.
Warriors Seal the Victory
As the final quarter began, both teams played cautiously. With just eight minutes left, the Warriors earned their first penalty corner. Neha’s shot, however, sailed over the crossbar.
Shortly afterward, Rutuja seized a loose ball in the circle. With precision, she struck the ball between Savita’s legs, restoring the Warriors’ lead at 2-1. The Warriors continued pressing and earned another penalty corner, but Yibbi Jansen’s flick was easily blocked.
In the final moments, Soorma pushed hard for an equalizer. However, the Warriors stayed composed and successfully defended their lead. With this hard-fought 2-1 win, Odisha Warriors lifted the trophy and celebrated their well-deserved title.