Thailand women Hockey first qualification for the FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup. © fih.hockey
Thailand’s women’s hockey team has made history by winning the Women’s Indoor Asia Cup 2024 and securing their first-ever qualification for the FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup 2025. The victory came after a stunning 6-2 triumph over Kazakhstan in the final, marking a momentous occasion for Thai hockey.
The tournament, held in the bustling coastal city of Chonburi, saw nine teams battling for supremacy from May 13-16, 2024. The competition was tough, with each team vying not only for the prestigious title but also for the sole ticket to the World Cup in Poreč, Croatia, set for February 3-9, 2025.
Thailand’s journey to glory began in Pool B, where they showcased their dominance by winning all their matches. Defending champions Thailand topped the group with three straight victories, followed by Indonesia, who also advanced to the semi-finals. In Pool A, Kazakhstan, six-time winners of the competition led the pack, with Malaysia securing the second spot in the semi-finals.
The semi-finals were a test of nerves and skill. Kazakhstan faced Indonesia in a nail-biting match that ended 3-3 in regulation time. The experienced Kazakh team edged out Indonesia in the shoot-outs, securing their place in the final. Meanwhile, Thailand overcame a formidable challenge from Malaysia, winning 2-1 in a closely contested match.
Anticipation was high as Thailand and Kazakhstan, the tournament’s top teams, clashed in the final. Fans expected a tightly fought contest, but Thailand had other plans. Displaying exceptional offensive prowess and solid defense, Thailand dominated the match from start to finish. The final scoreline of 6-2 was a testament to their superiority and preparation.
Thailand’s head coach, Esfandyar Safaei, expressed his pride and excitement after the match. “We are really happy with this victory and upon qualifying for our first ever FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup. That is a busy year with the Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in November, which we will use to prepare for the Indoor World Cup in Croatia in February 2025. We aim to achieve the best result any Asian team has ever had in the competition,” Safaei said.
The Women’s Indoor Asia Cup 2024 came to an end yesterday with Thailand claiming the title following a stunning 6-2 victory over Kazakhstan, and securing their spot at the upcoming FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup 2025, which will be played in Poreč, Croatia https://t.co/gj6766p9V5
— #TeamMALAYSIA (@AtletMalaysia) May 17, 2024
A Historic Achievement
This victory is not just a win but a historic milestone for Thai women’s indoor hockey. It reflects the team’s hard work and dedication and the growing prominence of the sport in Thailand. As they look forward to competing on the world stage, the team’s achievement inspires future generations of athletes.
Thailand’s qualification for the FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup 2025 is a beacon of hope and pride for the nation. The coming up Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in November will be another opportunity for the team to hone their skills and tactics. With the World Cup on the horizon, the Thai team is set to make waves in Croatia, aiming for unprecedented success.
Stay tuned as we follow Thailand’s journey to the FIH Indoor Hockey World Cup 2025 and witness this incredible team make history on the global stage.
