India Thrash South Africa 6-1 to Strengthen Top Spot in Hockey World Cup Pool D

The Indian women’s hockey team strengthened their position at the top of Pool D with a commanding 6-1 victory over South Africa at the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 in Amstelveen on Tuesday.

Sunelita Toppo opened the scoring in the 11th minute before Navneet Kaur doubled India’s lead with a powerful penalty-corner strike. Sushila Chanu made it 3-0 before half-time. India continued their dominance after the break, with Deepika, Lalremsiami and Sakshi Rana adding three more goals in the third quarter. South Africa managed a consolation goal through Kayla de Waal in the 55th minute, but India comfortably secured all three points.

The victory takes India to four points from two matches after their opening 2-2 draw against China. India will face England in their final Pool D match on August 20.