Naveen Patnaik Congratulates Women’s Hockey Team on World Cup Qualification

Bhubaneswar: Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik on Saturday congratulated the Indian Women’s Hockey Team for their 1–0 victory over Italy in the semi-final of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers, securing their place in the final and confirming their qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026.

The decisive goal was scored by Manisha Chauhan through a drag flick in the 40th minute, sealing the narrow win for India.

Congratulating the team, Patnaik said, “Congratulate Indian Women’s Hockey Team on their 1–0 victory over Italy to move into the final of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers and qualifying for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026. Wish the team all the very best for the final match against England.”

The semi-final match was played at the GMC Balayogi Hockey Stadium in Hyderabad. With the victory, India advanced to the final where they will face England in the title clash.