india-eyes-consistency-against-reigning-champs-belgium

With a quarterfinal berth securely in hand, the Indian men’s hockey team is poised to face their sternest challenge yet against reigning champions Belgium in their penultimate Pool B match of the Olympic Games on Thursday.

 

The Red Lions currently top Pool B, having secured three victories in as many matches.

 

India follows closely in second place, boasting two wins and a draw.

 

Mighty Australia trails in third with seven points from two wins and one loss, while Argentina, with four points from a win, draw, and loss, have also clinched a spot in the quarterfinals. 

 

New Zealand and Ireland are out of contention, having lost three consecutive matches each. Only the top four teams advance to the last-eight stage.

 

India's campaign began with a narrow 3-2 win over New Zealand, followed by a last-minute goal securing a draw against former champions Argentina.

 

The match against Ireland showcased a significantly improved performance, particularly in the first two quarters. 

 

The Indians dominated possession with fluid one-touch play, scoring two critical goals in the first quarter that sealed the victory.

 

Captain Harmanpreet Singh proved instrumental once again, converting a penalty stroke and scoring from a set piece in the second quarter.

 

The Indian midfield, led by veteran four-time Olympian Manpreet Singh and vice-captain Hardik Singh, was exceptional, creating numerous opportunities for the forward line.

 

Forwards Mandeep Singh, Lalit Upadhyay, Gurjant Singh, and Sukhjeet Singh were dynamic upfront, maintaining relentless pressure on the opposition defense.

 

In their match against Ireland on Tuesday, India utilised one-to-one short passes to construct their attacks, steering clear of aerial balls.

 

Right-back Jarmanpreet Singh has emerged as a standout performer, contributing significantly in both defense and attack.

 

Amit Rohidas also deserves commendation for his rock-solid defensive display, particularly his adeptness at defending penalty corners and excelling in one-on-one situations.

 

Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, in his Olympic swansong, continues to live up to his reputation as India’s impenetrable wall.

 

His multiple crucial saves in the last two quarters against Ireland were pivotal in securing the win.

 

Following the match against Belgium, India will conclude their pool engagements with a face-off against nemesis Australia on Friday.

 

This final pool match will provide another rigorous test as India seeks to build momentum and consistency ahead of the knockout stages.