MS Dhoni supports the Indian women’s hockey team in Ranchi during the Olympic qualifying tournament.
In the Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda Astro Turf Hockey Stadium in Ranchi on Thursday, Indian legend MS Dhoni supported the Indian women’s hockey team during their semifinal match against Germany in the FIH Women’s Olympic Qualifiers.
On social media, a picture of Dhoni receiving recognition at the stadium during the match went viral.
IN THE PENALTY SHOTOUT, INDIA LOSES
Notably, in the FIH Women’s Hockey Olympic Qualifiers, India lost to Germany 3–4 in a penalty shootout. After India and Germany drew 2-2 at halftime, there was a penalty shootout and sudden death.
India had a 2-1 lead in the shootout but missed multiple chances to win the match; eventually, the Germans equalized and took a 3-2 lead, and Lalremsiami brought the score back to 3-3, resulting in sudden death. Germany’s Olympic quota in Paris was guaranteed by Lisa Nolte’s no-look nutmeg on Indian goalie and captain Savita.
In spite of the thrilling atmosphere and the presence of cricket icon MS Dhoni in the grandstand, this time the Indian team was unable to guarantee their place in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
India bravely battled against its more favored opponent, but when the USA prevailed 2-1 in the other semifinal, they now have to win again against Japan to secure third place and the only Olympic slot available.
There is yet hope for the Indian women’s squad to qualify for the next Olympic Games. The audience’s encouragement, which included the renowned MS Dhoni, was proof of the rising acceptance and popularity of women’s hockey in India.
The Indian team’s tenacity and fighting spirit were evident despite the defeat, and they raised the prospect of an exciting matchup with Japan.
