In a nail-biting encounter at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai on January 8, 2026, the Vedanta Kalinga Lancers secured a hard-fought 2-1 win against the Shrachi Bengal Tigers in Match 8 of the Men’s Hero Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26. The game, which remained goalless for three quarters, exploded into life in the final period with a flurry of goals, referrals, and dramatic saves. This victory propelled the Lancers to second place on the points table, marking their second consecutive win after a strong start to the season.
The Tigers, dressed in red and desperate for points after a heavy 6-0 defeat in their opener against JSW Surma, put up a valiant fight but ultimately fell short. The Lancers, under coach Jay Stacy, showcased resilience and clinical finishing in the closing minutes to seal the deal.
A Tense, Defensive Battle in the Early Quarters
The match kicked off with high intensity, as both teams probed for openings. The Lancers dominated the first quarter with 11 circle entries and earned an early penalty corner, but failed to convert, thanks to stellar goalkeeping from James Carr in the Tigers’ net. Carr’s stupendous saves kept the Tigers in the game during the opening stages.
As the second quarter unfolded, the Tigers grew into the contest, registering nine circle entries and four shots on goal. However, Krishan Bahadur Pathak, the Lancers’ goalkeeper, was in inspired form, pulling off exceptional saves to maintain the deadlock. Defensive solidity from both sides ensured the scoreboard remained untouched at halftime.
The third quarter saw the Tigers build momentum, pushing the Lancers back with intricate passing and quick transitions. Players like Jugraj Singh and Sukhjeet Singh for the Tigers, and Aran Zalewski and Craig Fulton for the Lancers, were instrumental in midfield battles. Despite the pressure, neither team could find the breakthrough, setting the stage for a dramatic finale.
Fourth-Quarter Fireworks: Goals, Equalizers, and a Winner
The game truly came alive in the final quarter. In the 52nd minute, Belgian drag-flick specialist Alexander Hendrickx broke the impasse for the Lancers with a powerful penalty corner flick that rocketed past Carr, giving his team a 1-0 lead. Hendrickx’s strike—his third goal of the tournament—highlighted his prowess from set pieces and shifted the momentum.
But the Tigers responded swiftly. Just four minutes later, in the 56th minute, Spanish forward Enrique Gonzalez trapped a long aerial ball brilliantly and played it across the face of the goal, allowing Indian star Affan Yousuf to tap in the equalizer at the back post. The stadium erupted as the score leveled at 1-1, with the Tigers sensing a potential comeback.
The drama intensified immediately after. The Lancers earned another penalty corner, and Hendrickx’s flick was saved by Carr. However, the rebound fell kindly to Boby Singh Dhami, who slotted it home from close range in the 57th minute to restore the Lancers’ lead at 2-1. A referral was called by the Tigers, contesting a potential push or back-stick infringement, but the goal was upheld after review, costing the Tigers their referral.
With just seconds remaining, the Tigers pushed forward desperately but couldn’t find an equalizer. Fireworks lit up the sky as the Lancers celebrated a crucial victory.
Standout Performances and Tactical Insights
Alexander Hendrickx was the star for the Lancers, not only scoring but also anchoring their defense. Boby Singh Dhami’s opportunistic finish proved decisive, while Krishan Bahadur Pathak’s heroics in goal were pivotal in the earlier quarters.
For the Tigers, Affan Yousuf’s clinical finish and Enrique Gonzalez’s assist showcased their attacking threat. Coach Valentin Altenburg, who has a history with the Lancers, will rue the missed opportunities despite a strong showing from his side.
The match underscored the league’s return in bigger, better, and bolder fashion, with fast-paced action and high-stakes drama. Fans can catch all HIL matches live on Sony Sports channels, DD Sports, or streamed on Waves and the Hockey India League YouTube channel.
This win keeps the Lancers in the hunt for the top spot, while the Tigers must regroup quickly for their next fixture. Stay tuned for more electrifying hockey as the Hero HIL 2025-26 heats up!
