Bhubaneswar, Jan 26: Vedanta Kalinga Lancers clinched the Men’s Hockey India League (HIL) 2025-26 title with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Ranchi Royals in the final at the Kalinga Stadium here on Monday. The home side produced a commanding performance, capitalising on penalty opportunities and holding their nerve in the closing stages to secure the title.

The Lancers struck early, taking the lead in the fourth minute through a penalty conversion. Ranchi Royals responded swiftly, with Arijit Singh Hundal scoring a fine field goal in the ninth minute to level the contest at 1-1.

In the second quarter, Kalinga Lancers earned three consecutive penalty corners, converting one through Dilpreet Singh to regain the lead at 2-1. Star drag-flicker Alexander Hendrickx extended the advantage to 3-1 with another penalty corner strike, putting the home side firmly in control.

The third quarter saw both teams miss penalty opportunities, keeping the scoreline unchanged. Ranchi Royals pressed hard in the final quarter, earning as many as five penalty corners. However, they managed to convert only one, reducing the margin to 3-2. Despite sustained pressure, the Lancers’ defence held firm to seal the win.

Captain Arthur Van Doren praised his team’s resilience, saying, “We stuck to our plan and showed great composure under pressure. Winning the title at home makes it even more special.”

Odisha’s Deepasan Tirkey expressed pride in contributing to the victory, noting the importance of local representation in the squad. Ranchi Royals’ Manpreet Singh admitted disappointment but lauded his team’s fighting spirit, remarking, “We created chances but could not finish them. Still, we fought till the end.”

The victory marked a memorable night for the Kalinga Lancers, who combined attacking flair with defensive discipline to clinch the HIL crown in front of their home supporters.