Las Leonas Advance to World Cup Second Round After Beating Scotland

Argentina's national women's field hockey team, affectionately known as 'Las Leonas,' secured a decisive 2-0 victory over Scotland, successfully advancing to the second round of the Women's World Cup. The tournament is currently being co-hosted by the Netherlands and Belgium.

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Very nice sensations, everywhere in the world there are people supporting. It's a plus for all of us to enter and see all these people singing the anthem.

The match, held at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre, Belgium, saw Argentina score in each half. The opening goal came early in the game, at the 8-minute mark, when Valentina Raposo's penalty corner found Majo Granatto, who capitalized on the rebound. The second goal arrived in the 11th minute of the third quarter, with Granatto again instrumental, providing a low cross that Lara Casas deflected into the net for a 2-0 lead.

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All matches are very tough, especially because of this tournament format. We knew it was going to be difficult, we had played a six-point game against Germany. That defensive and team solidity was evident.

Following their opening draw against the United States and a subsequent 3-2 win against Germany, this victory against Scotland solidifies Las Leonas' position in the tournament. The team, under the guidance of coach Fernando Ferrara, now awaits the outcome of the match between the United States and Germany to determine their final standing in Group B.

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Just as it is true that we are not converting the short corners, we know that it is a lethal weapon we have and it appears when we need it.

Before the match, Argentina's captain, Agostina Alonso, was honored by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for reaching her 200th international appearance. Post-game, player Juana Castellaro expressed the team's positive feelings, noting the support from fans worldwide. Victoria Sauze added that her experience in international tournaments helps the team manage critical moments, emphasizing the importance of defensive solidity and confidence gained from the win for the upcoming phase.

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I have the experience of having gone through several international tournaments; I can contribute with my head to know how to manage certain moments.