Ranchi: Odisha Warriors clinched the inaugural Women’s Hockey India League title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Soorma Hockey Club in the final on Sunday.
Rutuja Dadaso Pisal did the star turn for Odisha Warriors, handing her team lead in the 20th minute.
Penny Squib levelled scores eight minutes later.
When it looked the title showdown would go into a penalty shootout, Rutuja showed her opportunism again minutes before the final hooter, striking the ball home after Soorma’s Englebert lost possession inside the D.
Watch the winning moment:
🚨 History made! 🚨
Odisha Warriors are the 2025 Women’s Hockey India League champions after defeating Soorma Hockey Club 2-1 in a thrilling final. 🏆🔥
An unforgettable performance with Rutuja leading the charge. Congratulations to the champions! 🙌👏 #OdishaWarriors… pic.twitter.com/EO3JWgmecW
— Doordarshan Sports (@ddsportschannel) January 26, 2025
Odisha chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi applauded the “unstoppable” Warriors.
“Heartfelt congratulations to the unstoppable Odisha Warriors for their historic triumph in the inaugural Women’s #HeroHIL. Your grit and passion have made the entire state proud,” the CM wrote on X along with pictures of the final.
Heartfelt congratulations to the unstoppable Odisha Warriors for their historic triumph in the inaugural Women’s #HeroHIL. Your grit and passion have made the entire state proud.
#OdishaForHockey pic.twitter.com/5Qeh2ik5js
— Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) January 26, 2025
Sports minister Suryabanshi Suraj also congratulated the winning team.
“Heartiest congratulations to the #OdishaWarriors for clinching the inaugural Women’s Hockey India League title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Soorma Hockey Club! This achievement showcases Odisha’s growing sports culture and unwavering determination of our athletes. A proud day for Odisha,” posted Suraj.
Heartiest congratulations to the #OdishaWarriors for clinching the inaugural Women’s Hockey India League title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Soorma Hockey Club! This achievement showcases Odisha’s growing sports culture and unwavering determination of our athletes. A proud…
— Suryabanshi Suraj (@suryabanshibjp) January 26, 2025
