The Dutch hockey players also won their third game in the group stage of the World Cup in Amstelveen on Wednesday. The Orange squad set World Cup debutant Chile aside thanks to a nice goal by Eva de Goede 3-1.
De Goede signed for the 3-1 in the fourth quarter with a nice backhand shot in the top corner. It marked her first goal for the experienced HGC player since coming back from her knee injury, which she sustained at the end of November.
With the goal, De Goede ended the match in the atmospheric Wagener Stadium. Despite a large field dominance, the Orange squad had a surprisingly difficult time against Chile, which was still level halfway through (1-1).
The equalizer of Chile, the number fifteen in the world, was celebrated in the second quarter by both the players and the coach. The opening goal of the Netherlands came in the name of Lidewij Welten. Yibbi Jansen made the liberating 2-1 in the third quarter.
Due to the victory, the Dutch hockey players have completed a clear group stage. Earlier in the tournament, the team defeated national coach Jamilon Mülders of Ireland (5-1) and Germany (3-1).
Thanks to the three victories, the Netherlands is sure of a place in the last eight. In the quarterfinals, the defending champion will play against an as yet unknown opponent on Tuesday 12 July.
Final standings group A
- 1. Netherlands 3-9 (+8)
- 2. Germany 3-6 (+4)
- 3. Chile 3-3 (-4)
- 4. Ireland 3-0 (-8)
Chile made it surprisingly difficult for the Orange.
Chile made it surprisingly difficult for the Orange. Photo: Pro Shots