Red Panthers make history on their way to EuroHockey final

Belgium’s women’s field hockey team is headed to the finals of the EuroHockey Championships on Saturday, where they will face the Netherlands. It’s the first time the Red Panthers have ever made it to the final of the European championships.

Jill Boon made the one and only goal that put the Red Panthers ahead of Germany 28 minutes into their semi-final match on Thursday. The women were able to take advantage of penalties that saw Germany playing with one fewer player – when the first goal was made – and two fewer later in the match.

It’s an especially encouraging performance from the Red Panthers, who failed to qualify for next year’s World Cup during the Women’s World League last month.

“It’s amazing!” said a jubilant Barbara Nelen following the match. “We wrote history today, and I am super proud of this team.”

The midfielder went on to talk about technique. “We finally played offensively. We changed our tactics, and it worked.”

The Red Panthers will meet the Netherlands on Saturday evening in Cardiff for the final.

Photo: Dirk Waem/BELGA