China vs Netherlands FIH Pro League 2025 -China Goes Down 3-1 to Netherlands in FIH Women’s Pro League 2025 Opener
Amstelveen, June 15 (UNI) — The Chinese women’s field hockey team began their Netherlands leg of the 2025 FIH Women’s Pro League with a hard-fought 3-1 loss against host nation and tournament favorites Netherlands at the Wagener Hockey Stadium on Saturday.
Despite the result, China showed commendable resilience and defensive strength throughout the match.
🔸 Strong Start but Missed Chances
China held firm during a fast-paced first quarter, surviving an early Dutch offensive just 90 seconds into the game. The home team earned a penalty corner opportunity but failed to convert.
It wasn’t until the 13th minute of the second quarter that the Dutch finally broke through, capitalizing on a swift passing combination within the shooting circle.
🔸 Dutch Dominate the Third Quarter
In the third quarter, the Netherlands stepped up their attack. Within four minutes, they added a second goal and quickly followed up with a third via a well-executed penalty corner, taking a commanding 3-0 lead.
🔸 China’s Fightback in the Final Quarter
China didn’t back down. In the final quarter, young defender Tan Jintong netted a rebound from a penalty corner in the 8th minute, scoring her first goal of the tournament and closing the gap to 3-1.
China kept pressing for a second goal with several circle penetrations, but the Dutch defense held strong until the final whistle.
🔸 Reactions from the Team
Team captain Ou Zixia praised her squad’s spirited performance:
“It was a high-quality game, and I’m proud of how resilient we were. Our defense was solid, but we need to convert more of our scoring opportunities.”
Ou also highlighted Tan Jintong’s outstanding contribution:
“She’s young, technically gifted, and strong defensively. I believe she’s a rising star to watch.”
🔸 Coach Annan Sees Lessons in Defeat
Head coach Alyson Annan, who previously coached the Netherlands national team, expressed satisfaction with the overall team effort:
“I think all of our players did really well. Two of the goals we conceded came from our own mistakes — and that’s okay. These games are about learning. I’d rather make these errors now than during future Olympic matches.”
🔸 Looking Ahead
China is set to face the Netherlands again on Sunday in the second leg of their Dutch tour. Coach Annan emphasized the importance of maintaining intensity while adapting to the speed and pressure of top-tier international competition.
“We need to match their tempo and build on the positives from today.”
