Kumar Scores Winning Goal in Hockey World Cup
"We just told ourselves before the game that we're going to fight hard, as we work on our first win so the spirit kept us going, just psyching each other up," Kumar said.
Friday 26 January 2024 | 01:12
Divyankar Kumar was the hero of the national hockey women's side when she scored the winning goal in their 3-2 win against Oman yesterday at the FIH Hockey5s World Cup.
The side trailed 1-0 at half time before coming back to score three goals in the second half through Lora Bukalidi, Tiara Dutta and Divyankar Kumar.
It was a historic win being one of six countries on their first appearance at the hockey 5s World Cup that is now held in Oman located at the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula.
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After their 14-1 loss against world's number one Netherlands, they made it their goal to win against the hosts.
"We just told ourselves before the game that we're going to fight hard, as we work on our first win so the spirit kept us going, just psyching each other up," Kumar said.
"It's a very proud moment for us and for everyone back at home; it's good to be part of history."
Kumar also acknowledged the tremendous support towards the two sides for their World Cup campaign.
Fiji women's is in Pool A with Netherlands, Malaysia, and Oman.
The Fiji women's side faced Malaysia last night after this edition went to press.
Meanwhile, speaking to International Hockey Federation, coach Hector Smith (senior), who has spent decades coaching hockey in Fiji, following the men's and women's teams qualifying for the inaugural Hockey5s World Cup, said:
Hockey action between Fiji and Oman on January 25, 2024.
It's a very proud moment for us and for everyone back at home; it's good to be part of history.
"The journey to the World Cup is a testament to the years of sacrifice, hard work, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle by our athletes.
"It sends a powerful message that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.
"Despite facing challenges, including the closure of our hockey centre for nearly two years, we adapted to Divyankar Kumar successfully achieve our objective. Fiji hockey player "We express our sincere gratitude (vinaka vakalevu) to everyone who has supported us in this incredible journey."
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