Stunning 2-1 Victory Keeps Soorma Playoff Dreams Alive
Bhubaneswar: Hockey fans at the iconic Kalinga Hockey Stadium witnessed a thrilling upset on Monday as JSW Soorma Hockey Club halted the winning streak of the table-topping Vedanta Kalinga Lancers. In a high-stakes Match 26 of the Men’s Hero HIL 2025-26, the visiting side displayed remarkable grit to secure a vital 2-1 victory, keeping their hopes for a playoff spot firmly in the picture.
While the Lancers have dominated the league so far, this match proved to be a stubborn test. Both teams started with a defensive mindset, keeping the first quarter goalless. Goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch was instrumental for Soorma early on, pulling off two crucial saves in the final minute of the first quarter to deny the home team a lead.
Momentum shifted in the second quarter. After a series of precise passes, Nicolas Keenan launched an attack from the left flank. Although his initial shot was blocked, Jeetpal was perfectly positioned to smash the rebound home in the 23rd minute, handing Soorma a 1-0 advantage. The Lancers struggled to find their rhythm, with frustrations boiling over as Dilpreet Singh received a yellow card just before halftime.
Soorma capitalized on their momentum immediately after the break. In the 38th minute, they executed a brilliant tactical variation during a penalty corner. Instead of a direct drag-flick, the ball was slipped to Vivek Sagar Prasad, who calmly slotted it past the keeper to double the lead.
The home crowd eventually found something to cheer for in the final quarter. Henderson scored in the 48th minute, sparking a frantic attempt by Vedanta Kalinga Lancers to find an equalizer. However, Victor Wegnez, who was later named Player of the Match, marshaled the midfield and defense superbly. despite a heavy offensive surge from the local favorites, JSW Soorma Hockey Club held their ground to claim three massive points.
This result moves Soorma to sixth place in the standings, proving that the race for the Men’s Hero HIL 2025-26 title is far from over.
Imgae Source: Hockey India League
