In an intense and thrilling encounter, Belgium edged past India in the FIH Pro League match held in Antwerp on May 25, 2024. The match, which ended 2-2 in regular time, saw Belgium secure a 3-1 victory in the penalty shootout, thereby claiming the additional shootout point. This victory marked Belgium’s second consecutive win over India, having previously beaten them 4-1.
Key Moments and Match Highlights
First Quarter: India’s Early Lead
11’ GOAL! IND 1-0 BEL: The first quarter saw India taking the lead through a spectacular goal by Araijeet Singh. The young forward scored his first-ever career goal, setting the tone for an exciting match.
13’ Pathak’s Save: Belgium tried to respond quickly, increasing the pace and making several aerial passes to enter the shooting circle. However, Indian goalkeeper Krishan Pathak made an incredible save to deny Belgium an equalizer, ensuring India led at the end of the first quarter.
Second Quarter: Belgium’s Equalizer
20’ PC for India: India continued to dominate possession and won a couple of penalty corners. Unfortunately, they couldn’t capitalize on these opportunities.
31’ GOAL! IND 1-1 BEL: Just before the end of the second quarter, Belgium leveled the score through a penalty corner conversion by Felix Denayer. The equalizer came as a result of relentless pressure from the Belgian side, ending the first half at 1-1.
Third Quarter: Stalemate
35’-50’ Stalemate: The third quarter was a balanced contest with both teams creating chances but failing to convert. India’s defensive efforts, led by Harmanpreet Singh, were crucial in keeping Belgium at bay. The score remained tied at 1-1 as the third quarter ended.
Fourth Quarter: Dramatic Goals
50’ GOAL! IND 1-2 BEL: Belgium took the lead in the fourth quarter with a goal from Van Aubel. The goal came off a penalty corner, reflecting Belgium’s strategic play and composure under pressure.
57’ GOAL! IND 2-2 BEL: India responded quickly with a goal from their captain Harmanpreet Singh, who expertly converted a penalty corner to bring the score level again at 2-2. This set up a nail-biting finish as both teams looked for a winning goal.
59’ Missed Opportunity: India had a late penalty corner, which could have secured a victory, but the opportunity was missed, leading to a shootout.
Penalty Shootout: Belgium Prevails
SHOOTOUT BEGINS: The match headed into a penalty shootout, with both teams assured of one point each and vying for the bonus point.
21:27 IND 0-1 BEL: Belgium scored the first goal in the shootout, with Sreejesh unable to defend.
21:29 IND 1-1 BEL: Sukhjeet Singh leveled the score for India after Belgium missed their second attempt.
21:30 IND 1-2 BEL: Van Aubel scored again for Belgium, while Abhishek’s attempt was stopped by the Belgian goalkeeper.
21:31 IND 1-3 BEL: Belgium secured the victory as Sreejesh was unable to stop the final shot, and India’s last attempt hit the post.
Tactical Analysis
India’s Performance
India displayed a commendable performance, especially in terms of offensive play and possession. Their aggressive start, with an early goal from Araijeet Singh, showcased their intent. The defensive line, anchored by Harmanpreet Singh, managed to thwart several Belgian attacks, although they conceded two crucial goals from penalty corners. The team’s ability to equalize late in the game through Harmanpreet highlighted their resilience.
Belgium’s Strategy
Belgium’s strategy revolved around maintaining composure and capitalizing on penalty corners, a tactic that paid off twice during the match. Their ability to slow the game down and control possession at critical moments helped them manage the game effectively. The Red Lions’ experience in high-pressure situations was evident in the shootout, where they outperformed India.
Key Players
India
Harmanpreet Singh: The captain was pivotal in both defense and offense, scoring the equalizer that took the game into the shootout.
Araijeet Singh: The young forward scored his first career goal, making a significant impact in the match.
Krishan Pathak: The goalkeeper made several crucial saves, especially in the first quarter, to keep India in the game.
Belgium
Van Aubel: Scored a crucial goal in regular time and another in the shootout, playing a key role in Belgium’s victory.
Felix Denayer: His goal at the end of the second quarter was crucial in bringing Belgium back into the match.
Belgian Goalkeeper: Played a decisive role in the shootout, stopping multiple Indian attempts.
Post-Match Reactions
India
Araijeet Singh: “All part of the game. We came with good structure and energy, but we need to convert our chances better.”
Harmanpreet Singh: “We showed great fight today. It’s always tough to lose in a shootout, but we’ll take the positives and work on our game.”
Belgium
Van Aubel: “It was a tough match. India played very well, but we kept our focus and managed to win in the shootout.”
Felix Denayer: “Scoring just before halftime was crucial. It gave us the momentum we needed to keep pushing forward.”
FIH Pro League Points System
The FIH Pro League operates on a points system designed to reward both outright wins and shootout victories:
3 Points: For an outright win in regular time.
1 Point: For a draw at the end of regular time.
1 Bonus Point: For winning a drawn match in the shootout.
0 Points: For the losing side in regular time.
In this match, both India and Belgium earned one point each for the draw, with Belgium securing an additional point for their shootout victory.
Match Statistics
Possession: India had more possession, especially in the first half.
Penalty Corners: Both teams had multiple penalty corners, but Belgium converted theirs more effectively.
Shots on Goal: India had several attempts, but Belgium’s goalkeeper made crucial saves.
Defensive Saves: Both goalkeepers were tested, with Pathak and Sreejesh making notable saves for India.
Looking Ahead
India’s Prospects
India’s performance in this match, despite the loss, shows promise. The team needs to focus on converting penalty corners and maintaining composure during high-pressure situations like shootouts. With several matches remaining in the FIH Pro League, India has the opportunity to refine their strategies and climb up the points table.
Belgium’s Campaign
Belgium continues to demonstrate why they are one of the top teams in international hockey. Their ability to remain calm under pressure and convert critical opportunities is a testament to their experience and skill. As the FIH Pro League progresses, Belgium will look to maintain their form and secure more victories.
The FIH Pro League match between India and Belgium on May 25, 2024, was a showcase of high-intensity hockey, with both teams displaying skill, strategy, and determination. Belgium’s victory in the penalty shootout, after a hard-fought 2-2 draw in regular time, highlighted their resilience and tactical acumen. For India, the match provided valuable lessons and underscored the areas needing improvement as they continue their campaign in the league. As the competition progresses, both teams will aim to build on this match, striving for excellence and aiming for top positions in the league standings.
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