Daijiworld Media Network- Santiago
Santiago, Jun 13: India will face a tough challenge at the upcoming Women’s Junior World Cup 2025 as they have been drawn in Pool C alongside former champions Germany, European contenders Ireland, and African debutants Namibia. The announcement was made on Thursday by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), with the prestigious tournament set to be hosted in Santiago, Chile, from December 1 to 13, 2025.
This year’s edition marks a significant expansion of the tournament, featuring 24 teams for the first time. The teams have been divided into six pools of four.
Pool A features defending champions the Netherlands, hosts Chile, Japan, and Malaysia. Pool B comprises Argentina, Belgium, Zimbabwe, and Wales. Pool D brings together England, South Africa, China, and Austria, while Pool E includes Australia, Spain, Canada, and Scotland. Pool F will see the United States, Korea, New Zealand, and Uruguay in action.
India’s Pool C campaign will be closely watched, with Germany posing a formidable challenge, being the inaugural winners of the tournament in 1989. Ireland, known for their tactical discipline, and Namibia, relatively inexperienced at this level, complete the group.
Speaking at the official draw ceremony, FIH President Dr. Tayyab Ikram expressed enthusiasm about Chile hosting one of hockey’s premier youth events. “It’s with great pleasure that FIH is going back to Chile for one of its most important events. It will be a great occasion to welcome young stars from across the globe to showcase their talent and enjoy the warm hospitality of Chile,” he said.
He also commended Chile for its growing stature in the hockey world and acknowledged the efforts of the government, stakeholders, and sponsors in making the event possible.
The Junior Women’s World Cup, launched in 1989 in Canada, will see its 11th edition this year. The Netherlands remain the most successful team in the history of the tournament, with five titles. Argentina and South Korea have each claimed the crown twice, while Germany has one title to their name.
India, who have shown steady progress in youth hockey over recent years, will be aiming to make a strong impact and advance to the knockout stages from a competitive group.