The Indian women’s hockey team played out a 2-2 draw against Scotland in their second Pool B match of the FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 Qualifiers at the G.M.C. Balayogi Hockey Stadium in Hyderabad on Monday. Despite a spirited comeback in the first half, India could not hold on to their lead as Scotland fought back to share the points.

With the result, both teams moved to four points in the group standings. However, India stayed on top of Pool B due to a superior goal difference.

Scotland made a bright start and stunned the home crowd early in the game. Heather McEwan opened the scoring in the sixth minute after converting a penalty corner, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead. India initially struggled to find rhythm in attack and looked shaky in defence during the opening exchanges.

The hosts slowly settled into the game and began creating chances. Their persistence paid off in the 18th minute when experienced forward Navneet Kaur reacted quickly to a loose ball from a penalty corner and smashed home the equaliser. The goal lifted India’s tempo as they pushed Scotland deeper into their half.

India went ahead just before halftime. In the 29th minute, a chaotic goalmouth scramble following another penalty corner allowed Sunelita Toppo to guide the ball into the net, giving the hosts a 2-1 lead at the break.

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However, Scotland responded almost immediately after the restart. In the 33rd minute, Fiona Burnet finished off a well-worked passing move to restore parity and make it 2-2. The visitors then defended resolutely while India searched for a winner.

India continued to attack in the final quarter and earned multiple penalty corners, but the finishing touch eluded them. Scotland goalkeeper Jessica Buchanan made crucial saves to deny the hosts late in the match.

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Despite the draw, India remain well placed in the group stage and will look to convert their chances more efficiently in the upcoming matches of the qualification tournament. While India showed attacking intent, sharper finishing will be key if they hope to secure a place in the 2026 Women’s Hockey World Cup.