Coming into the final pool match Indian women are trailing at third place in the table, behind leader South Africa and Italy. Fortunately for them they can write their fate without thinking of any permutation. They just need to win against Italy to book the place in final against South Africa.
2012 Olympics Qualifier: Indian Men Await Finalist
- South Africa has 10 points and are already in final.
Italy has 8 points and even a draw against India will send them to final.
India with 7 points must win against Italy to sail ahead and enter the final.
Tournament Record for Italy and India
- 1st Match: Italy drew with Canada, while India drew with Ukraine.
2nd Match: Italy thrashed Poland 4-1, and India thrashed Canada by same margin.
3rd Match: Italy drew against South Africa, India thrashed Poland 3-0.
4th Match: Italy defeated Ukraine 2-1, while India was thrashed by South Africa 5-2.
Goal Differences
- Italy has a goal difference of +4, scoring 9 goals. India has a goal difference of +3, scoring 10 goals.
Goal Scorers for Italy
- 6 – Padalino (Goals in every match including hattrick against Poland)
2- Ruggieri
1- Wybieralska
Goal Scorers for India
- 3- Yendala
2- Rani Rampal
1 – Pukhrambam, Thockchom, P Rani, R Rani, Lakra
Team Comparison
While Padalino is clearly the most dangerous player of the tournament, scoring in every match, Indian team has a balanced look with 7 players scoring the goals in 4 matches. A lot will depend on how Padalino and Wybieralska are kept in control by Indian defenders.
Italy have only 3 goal scorers in the last four matches, and against a good Indian defence they may need contribution from other team members to enter the final.
Chances
Italy has a better chance though according to the form in the tournament so far. They have drawn against the best team South Africa and have not lost any match so far. Another draw will ensure a place in final for them.
India can see the finals in sight. They just need a win. Indian fans will keep the fingers crossed and hope Indian Women’s team has improved their Penalty Corner skills and planned well to keep the Italians at bay.
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