The Netherlands achieved a historic feat at the Paris 2024 Olympics, securing a double in Olympic hockey with the women’s team clinching gold just 24 hours after the men’s team triumphed.
Women’s Final Highlights
- Final Score: Netherlands 3-1 China (Shootout)
- Location: Yves du Manoir Stadium, Colombes
The Dutch women’s team, defending their title, faced a challenging match against China, who held them to a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
- Early Lead: Chen Yi scored for China in the 6th minute.
- Equalizer: Yibbi Jansen scored a penalty corner nine minutes from time to level the scores.
- Shootout Performance: Dutch goalkeeper Anne Veenendaal was instrumental, saving the first three Chinese shootout attempts to secure the victory.
Historical Context
- Back-to-Back Success: The Netherlands’ men’s and women’s teams both won gold in the same Olympics, a first in Olympic hockey history.
- Previous Medal Counts: China adds a second silver to their tally, having won gold in Beijing 2008.
Dutch Journey to Gold
- Group Stage: The Dutch women won all their pool matches, including a 3-0 victory over China.
- Knockout Rounds: They defeated Great Britain in the quarter-finals and Argentina in the semi-finals.
Key Moments
- Chinese Defense: Despite limited attacks, China defended stoutly, with goalkeeper Ye Jiao making crucial saves.
- Dutch Pressure: The Dutch had multiple chances, including a penalty corner and a penalty stroke, but faced a resilient Chinese defense.
Additional Results
- Bronze Medal Match: Argentina secured the bronze medal with a 3-1 shootout victory over Belgium after a 2-2 draw in regular time.
