Shilanand Lakra scores brace to secure crucial playoff victory
Bhubaneswar:High-octane action returned to the Kalinga Hockey Stadium on Friday as Hyderabad Toofans secured a convincing 2-0 victory over HIL GC in the Men’s HeroHockey India LeagueEliminator. With this win, the Toofans have booked their spot in Qualifier 2, keeping their hopes alive for a place in the grand final.
Local favorite Shilanand Lakra was the undisputed star of the evening. His brilliant brace (two goals) in the 16th and 39th minutes proved to be the difference between the two sides in this knockout clash.
Early Deadlock and Defensive Heroics
Both teams started the match with aggressive intent, yet neither could find the back of the net in the first quarter. Hyderabad Toofans earned an early penalty corner in the second minute but failed to convert. HIL GC also threatened to score when Sam Ward deflected a ball on target, only to be denied by a sharp save from Toofans' goalkeeper, Jean Paul Danneberg.
The deadlock finally broke in the 16th minute. Shilanand Lakra showcased exceptional skill, winning the ball in a tight spot and dribbling past defenders to score via a deflection. While HIL GC controlled possession and hunted for an equalizer, the Toofans' defense stood tall. Arthur De Sloover was particularly impressive, making a crucial goal-line save against a powerful drag-flick from Kane Russell in the 24th minute.
Toofans Seal the Deal
Hyderabad maintained their momentum into the second half. In the 39th minute, a penalty corner flick by Amandeep Lakra was blocked by HIL GC goalkeeper James Mazarelo. However, an alert Shilanand pounced on the rebound, smashing the ball home to double the lead.
Despite relentless pressure from HIL GC in the final quarter—including withdrawing their goalkeeper for an extra outfield player—the Hyderabad defense refused to crack. Arthur De Sloover denied Kane Russell on the goal post yet again, ensuring a clean sheet for his team.
What’s Next?
Hyderabad Toofans will now face the loser of Qualifier 1 in the Qualifier 2 match on Sunday, January 25, 2026. Meanwhile, HIL GC will compete for the bronze medal in the 3rd/4th place playoff on Monday, January 26.
