The Netherlands etched their names in Olympic history on Friday, securing a remarkable double gold in hockey. The women’s team, reigning champions, overcame China in a dramatic shootout to clinch their fifth Olympic gold medal. This victory came just 24 hours after the men’s team had defeated Germany, marking the first time any nation has achieved a double gold in Olympic hockey.
The Dutch women faced a tough battle against the Chinese, who held them to a 1-1 draw in regulation time. Chen Yi put China ahead early in the match, and despite relentless pressure from the Dutch, the Chinese looked poised for their first Olympic gold. However, with nine minutes remaining, star penalty corner shooter Yibbi Jansen found the back of the net with her ninth goal of the tournament, equalizing the score. The shootout saw Dutch goalie Anne Veenendaal rise to the occasion, saving the first two Chinese attempts. When she denied Ma Ning’s attempt, the Dutch supporters erupted in celebration at the Yves du Manoir Stadium in Colombes.
China, under the guidance of Australian coach Alyson Annan, earned their second silver medal, having previously won silver in Beijing in 2008. The Chinese defense held strong, limiting the Dutch to only a few shots on goal throughout the match. The Dutch, having won all their pool matches, including a 3-0 victory over China, were considered favorites. However, it was China who opened the scoring in the seventh minute, silencing the orange-clad Dutch crowd.
The Dutch pressed throughout the second half, finally equalizing with Jansen’s goal. Despite continued pressure, the match went to a shootout where the Dutch proved victorious.
Earlier on Friday, Argentina secured their third Olympic bronze medal in women’s hockey, defeating Belgium in a shootout following a 2-2 draw. This marked Argentina’s sixth medal in women’s hockey.
