11 hours ago
Indian men's team beats Belgium 4-3 to end losing streak
The Indian men's hockey team finally ended their losing streak in the European leg of the FIH Pro League, defeating Belgium 4-3 in a thrilling contest on Sunday. The victory marked India's first win in this phase of the tournament, putting an end to a seven-match losing run.
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With the score tied at 3-3 and just two minutes remaining on the clock, India asked for a referral after a strong challenge inside the Belgian circle. The decision went in India's favour, and
, calm under pressure, stepped up to convert the penalty stroke and seal the win.
Belgium struck first in the 8th minute through Arthur de Sloover, who fired a superb shot into the top right corner, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead at the end of the first quarter after a dominant start.
India hit back in the second quarter, as Sukhjeet Singh found the equaliser from a penalty corner — a powerful strike that levelled the scores. However, Belgium regained the lead early in the third quarter through Nicolas Stockbroekx, who capitalised on a breakaway opportunity.
India responded almost immediately. Just a minute after going behind, Sukhjeet netted again — this time from open play — to bring the score to 2-2.
Moments later, Amit Rohidas put India in front for the first time in the match, converting a penalty corner with a thunderous shot that hit the back of the net.
But Belgium weren't done yet. They equalised once more through Thibeau Labouchere, who scored his maiden international goal off a penalty corner to make it 3-3.
In a tense final few minutes, it was Harmanpreet Singh who ensured India had the last word, converting a late penalty stroke to clinch a long-awaited win.
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Earlier, both teams began with attacking intent. While Belgium looked to control possession and tempo as the match progressed, India grew into the game, linking passes effectively and creating consistent pressure on the hosts' defence.
