Paris Olympics 2024: Harmanpreet Singh-led India go down to Belgium despite early lead

On Thursday (Aug 1), the Harmanpreet Singh-ledIndianteam's unbeaten run in Paris Olympics 2024 edition came to an end. After beating New Zealand and Ireland and managing a draw versus Argentina, India faced 2018 World Cup winners Belgium in a crucial Pool B game. Despite an early 1-0 lead, Indian men's hockey team lost 2-1, after a lacklustre defensive performance from the side.

The contest began with India's Abhishek Nain scoring a goal in the second-quarter. At the halfway mark, India were still 1-0 ahead but Belgium managed a turnaround in the last two quarters courtesy of their relentless attacking game and grit.India's woes were evident from the fact that theyconceded as many as 11 penalty corners in the game, while Belgium gave away only three. As a result, Belgium'sThibeau Stockbroekx (33rd) and John-John Dohmen (44th) chipped in with a goal each to take their side to a 2-1 lead.

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Before the game, India's attack-line was under pressure following their ordinary run in the previous three encounters. A lot of questions were also raised on the Men in Blue's over-reliance on skipper Harmanpreet (who has scored 4 goals in the mega competition). However, the Belgium encounter exposed India's defence as well, with the Tokyo 2020 bronze medal winners in dire need to pull up their socks going ahead. With a lacklustre defence, the pressure has multiplied on veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. He saved India on a plenty of occasions versus Belgium but couldn't preventthe eventual result.

While India have already qualified for the quarterfinals, they have a game left in the group stage, where they will face Australia on Aug 2(Friday). After the defeat, it will be interesting to see how they bounce back versus the daunting Aussies.