India’s men’s hockey team concluded the FIH Hockey World Cup with an eighth‑place finish after a tense penalty‑shootout defeat to Belgium on Sunday. The match ended 3‑3 after regular time, forcing the shootout where Belgium secured the win. India took an early lead through Abhishek’s field goal, while Harmanpreet Singh’s double forced the draw and extended the contest to a shootout. The loss ended India’s campaign at the tournament.
According to the Times of India, Harmanpreet’s goals were pivotal in securing the draw and pushing the match into a shootout. Belgium’s victory was ultimately decided in the penalty‑shootout after both teams exchanged goals.
Analysis:
The eighth‑place finish highlights both the progress and the challenges faced by the Indian squad. The early lead and subsequent comeback demonstrated resilience, but the inability to convert the shootout underscored the need for improvement in high‑pressure situations. The tournament provided valuable experience for a team aiming to build toward future World Cup cycles.
Sources
Times of India – “Belgium break Indian hearts in shootout as Harmanpreet’s side finish eighth in hockey World Cup,” https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/hockey/top-stories/belgium-break-indian-hearts-in-shootout-as-harmanpreets-side-finish-eighth-in-hockey-world-cup/articleshow/133598475.cms
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Story synopsis gathered from: Times of India – Top Stories — source
