The Indian hockey team experienced its first defeat at the Olympic Games, losing 1-2 to defending champions Belgium in a pool match on Thursday. India initially led with a goal from Abhishek in the 18th minute, but Belgium rallied in the second half with goals from Thibeau Stockbroekx (33rd) and John-John Dohmen (44th), maintaining their unbeaten record in the tournament. Both teams have already secured spots in the quarterfinals from Pool B.
India's previous matches saw them defeat New Zealand 3-2, draw 1-1 against Argentina, and beat Ireland 2-0. Their next and final pool match is against Australia on Friday. In the initial two quarters against Belgium, India dominated possession and created more opportunities.
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— International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) August 1, 2024
Defending Champions Belgium make a strong comeback in the second half to defeat India and win their fourth consecutive #Hockey game at #Paris2024 @hockeybe pic.twitter.com/YV39A4jelr
The Indian defence started strong, preventing Belgian forwards from scoring and stopping two penalty corners. Veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, in his final international tournament, made critical saves, including one in the eighth minute against Alexander Hendrickx. India’s Abhishek scored by intercepting a ball from Arthur de Sloover, manoeuvring past the Belgian defence, and shooting into the goal.
Belgium had another penalty corner in the 23rd minute, but Sreejesh denied Hendrickx again. India missed a penalty corner chance when Amit Rohidas fumbled with Harmanpreet Singh off the pitch.
Belgium intensified their efforts after halftime, and Stockbroekx equalized in the 33rd minute. Despite Sreejesh’s attempts to stop consecutive penalty corners, Dohmen scored from a rebound in the 44th minute, giving Belgium the lead. India tried to equalize in the final quarter, earning a few penalty corners, but couldn't break through Belgium's defence.
India's next match is against Australia on Friday.
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