The Indian men's hockey team has ended a long losing streak with a resounding victory, marking a triumphant return to winning ways. In a thrilling match played on June 22nd as part of the FIH Pro League 2024-25 European leg, India defeated Belgium 4-3, securing their first win of the tournament.
Sports News: The Indian men's hockey team finally achieved what millions of sports fans had been eagerly waiting for. In the European leg of the FIH Pro League 2025, Team India defeated Belgium 4-3, not only registering their first tournament win but also breaking a seven-match losing streak. Every moment of the match was filled with excitement, culminating in a decisive goal by captain Harmanpreet Singh in the final two minutes, securing India's victory.
This match represents more than just a victory for Indian hockey; it's a vibrant story of confidence, composure, and comeback. Winning against a powerful team like Belgium is no easy feat, but India achieved this seemingly impossible goal through teamwork, aggressive strategy, and precise decisions.
First Quarter: Belgium's Explosive Start
The match began with Belgium's fast-paced and aggressive style. In the eighth minute of the first quarter, Arthur de Sloover scored for Belgium, giving India an early setback. Belgium capitalized on a slight lapse in the Indian defense, taking a 1-0 lead. Belgium controlled the first quarter, and the Indian team couldn't create many significant opportunities.
Second Quarter: India's Sign of a Comeback
In the second quarter, the Indian team displayed a composed yet powerful game. The team earned a penalty corner and capitalized on the opportunity; Sukhjeet Singh scored with a powerful flick to level the score at 1-1. This goal was crucial for India's confidence, and the momentum of the game began to shift. The third quarter started in Belgium's favor again. Nicolas Stockbroekx scored in the 31st minute, making it 2-1. But India did not give up. Just four minutes later, Sukhjeet Singh scored another brilliant field goal, equalizing the score once more.
India started to gain momentum from here and soon earned another penalty corner, which Amit Rohidas converted into a goal, giving India their first lead – 3-2. However, this lead was short-lived. Belgium also earned a penalty corner, and Thibeau Lobocheere scored his first international goal, leveling the score at 3-3.
Final Quarter and the Decisive Moment
Just as it seemed the match was heading for a draw, the decisive moment arrived. In the final two minutes of the match, India launched an aggressive attack into the Belgian circle. The Indian players appealed for a referral, which was successful, resulting in a penalty stroke for India. Captain Harmanpreet Singh stepped up to take the stroke and, under immense pressure, expertly slotted the ball into the goal. India won the match 4-3, not only breaking their losing streak but also rekindling hopes for a b performance in the tournament.
The significance of this victory extends beyond the points table. India had faced seven consecutive defeats, which had shaken both the team's morale and the fans' confidence.
