In an entertaining final that lived up to its billing, Belgium beat India 1-0 in a closely-fought encounter to lift the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 in Malaysia. India was forced to settle for a Silver, thanks to Thibeau Stockbroekx's lone goal of the match in the 34th minute.&nbsp;This is Belgium's maiden Sultan Azlan Shah title and only their second appearance in one of the most prestigious invitational hockey tournaments in the international calendar.&nbsp;Unfortunately for India, who were coming into this match after a high-scoring 14-3 win against Canada on Saturday, they couldn't convert from the three penalty corners that they earned. While Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas and Sanjay have been successful in the PC attack during this tournament, they simply could not beat the Belgian defence. &nbsp;&nbsp;The only defeat India saw in this tournament was to Belgium earlier in the league stage. Belgium had got the better of India 3-2.&nbsp;The match underscored defensive discipline. There were intense midfield battles and with experienced stars like Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh rested for the tournament, the onus was on the younger lot who did were to keep narrow margins with a world class side like Belgium.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a> The first half ended goalless, but included high drama.&nbsp;Both teams displayed tactical game, with Belgium starting on a better note in comparison with ball possession stats on their side. Their attack troubled the Indian defence from both flanks, and even forced a couple of sharp saves from the Indian goalkeeper. Though there were two early PCs Belgium earned, India did well to keep them at bay.&nbsp; India took a while to settle into the match while Belgium really made them work in the midfield to control the play and enjoy longer spell with ball possession. But their could not make successful forays or couldn't make the final connect to the post. &nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;With 0-0 at half time, Belgium shifted momentum and put India under pressure. The Indians resorted to high press and increased their circle entries but could not out-smart Belgian defence in the third quarter too. Meanwhile, Stockbroekx's goal in the 34th minute put India under the pump.&nbsp;The final quarter saw India make desperate attempts to level scores but Belgium's structure held strong and were successful to run down the clock and seal the win.&nbsp;

Before the final, the only defeat India saw in this tournament was to Belgium earlier in the league stage. Belgium had got the better of India 3-2.

In an entertaining final that lived up to its billing, Belgium beat India 1-0 in a closely-fought encounter to lift the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 in Malaysia. India was forced to settle for a Silver, thanks to Thibeau Stockbroekx's lone goal of the match in the 34th minute. This is Belgium's maiden Sultan Azlan Shah title and only their second appearance in one of the most prestigious invitational hockey tournaments in the international calendar. Unfortunately for India, who were coming into this match after a high-scoring 14-3 win against Canada on Saturday, they couldn't convert from the three penalty corners that they earned. While Jugraj Singh, Amit Rohidas and Sanjay have been successful in the PC attack during this tournament, they simply could not beat the Belgian defence. The only defeat India saw in this tournament was to Belgium earlier in the league stage. Belgium had got the better of India 3-2. The match underscored defensive discipline. There were intense midfield battles and with experienced stars like Manpreet Singh and Hardik Singh rested for the tournament, the onus was on the younger lot who did were to keep narrow margins with a world class side like Belgium. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes The first half ended goalless, but included high drama. Both teams displayed tactical game, with Belgium starting on a better note in comparison with ball possession stats on their side. Their attack troubled the Indian defence from both flanks, and even forced a couple of sharp saves from the Indian goalkeeper. Though there were two early PCs Belgium earned, India did well to keep them at bay. India took a while to settle into the match while Belgium really made them work in the midfield to control the play and enjoy longer spell with ball possession. But their could not make successful forays or couldn't make the final connect to the post. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes With 0-0 at half time, Belgium shifted momentum and put India under pressure. The Indians resorted to high press and increased their circle entries but could not out-smart Belgian defence in the third quarter too. Meanwhile, Stockbroekx's goal in the 34th minute put India under the pump. The final quarter saw India make desperate attempts to level scores but Belgium's structure held strong and were successful to run down the clock and seal the win.

Before the final, the only defeat India saw in this tournament was to Belgium earlier in the league stage. Belgium had got the better of India 3-2.

Sultan Azlan Shah Cup: India settle for silver medal after hard-fought 0-1 defeat to Belgium

On Thursday (Aug 1), the Harmanpreet Singh-led&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;team'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.&nbsp;India's woes were evident from the fact that they&nbsp;conceded as many as 11 penalty corners in the game, while Belgium gave away only three. As a result, Belgium's&nbsp;Thibeau Stockbroekx (33rd) and John-John Dohmen (44th) chipped in with a goal each to take their side to a 2-1 lead.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-2024-swapnil-kusale-wins-third-medal-for-india-in-50m-rifle-3-positions-746203">Paris Olympics 2024: Swapnil Kusale wins bronze medal in Men's 50m Rifle 3 Position event</a>

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 prevent&nbsp;the 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&nbsp;(Friday). After the defeat, it will be interesting to see how they bounce back versus the daunting Aussies.

On Thursday (Aug 1), the Harmanpreet Singh-led Indian team'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.

On Thursday (Aug 1), the Harmanpreet Singh-led Indian team'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 they conceded as many as 11 penalty corners in the game, while Belgium gave away only three. As a result, Belgium's Thibeau Stockbroekx (33rd) and John-John Dohmen (44th) chipped in with a goal each to take their side to a 2-1 lead. Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: Swapnil Kusale wins bronze medal in Men's 50m Rifle 3 Position event 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 prevent the 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.

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

The Indian Men's Hockey Team registered a stunning 5-1 win against reigning Olympic Champions Belgium in their second match against them in the ongoing FIH Hockey Pro League at the Lee Valley Stadium in London on Friday.

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India’s men turned the tables on Belgium in their <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIHProLeague?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIHProLeague</a> encounter in London with an emphatic 5-1 win. Meanwhile, hosts Great Britain earned crucial 3 points despite two late goals from China. 
 
Here is our match day round-up: <a href="https://t.co/q5CesDXner">https://t.co/q5CesDXner</a><a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheHockeyIndia</a>… <a href="https://t.co/xxf8j7IUYF">pic.twitter.com/xxf8j7IUYF</a>
— International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIH_Hockey/status/1664712454520053760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Harmanpreet at double</h2>

India Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored twice (20', 30') while Vivek Sagar Prasad (2'), Amit Rohidas (29') and Dilpreet Singh (60') scored a goal each that helped the team avenge the 1-2 loss in their previous match against Belgium last week.

With redemption on their mind, the Indian team got off to a rollicking start with a well-executed field goal in only the 2nd minute of the game which set the momentum for the game. It was Gurjant Singh who set up the goal for Vivek with a fine assist from the left flank.

India built on this early success displayed good control of the ball, and showed the right temperament in their attacking structure. They mounted pressure on the Belgian defence when newcomer Sanjay forced the experienced Emmanuel Stockbroekx to make an error while making space in Belgium's half. The infringement resulted in India being awarded their first PC.&nbsp;

Though they could not convert this opportunity, the PC battery made no mistake in the 20th minute when&nbsp; Harmanpreet picked up a good injection by Abhishek and used a long powerful dragflick to find the bottom corner of the post. A 2-0 lead put the Indian side in good stead, allowing them to play their natural game. They dominated the ball possession and continued to puncture the Belgian defence.&nbsp;

In the 29th minute, Rajkumar Pal led the attack in the midfield, finding Mandeep on the right flank. Not taking the shot himself, Mandeep made a surprise pass to Amit Rohidas who took a successful shot on goal and put India in a comfortable 3-0 lead.

In the following minute, India extended this lead to 4-0 when they won yet another PC. A good injection by Hardik Singh saw Amit lead the PC variation but his flick was blocked by the Belgian goalkeeper. However, the rebound was picked up by Harmanpreet Singh who broke no sweat in putting the ball past Loic Van Doren.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-1983-wc-winning-team-backs-protesting-wrestlers-urges-them-to-not-immerse-medals-in-ganges-599632">India's 1983 WC winning team backs protesting wrestlers, urges them to not immerse medals in Ganges</a>

<h2>Belgium’s improbable comeback</h2>

Finding themselves on the backfoot with India taking a formidable lead at half-time, Belgium tested their opponent's PC defence when they were awarded back-to-back PCs at the start of the third quarter. Sreejesh, guarding the post, showcased some fine goalkeeping skills and eventually cleared the ball to safety.

In the following quarter, Belgium finally found a breakthrough when William Ghislan scored a fine field goal in the 46th minute. Belgium's late comeback didn't dent India's game. Determined to finish well, they stuck to their structure and produced a good attack in the dying minutes which resulted in Dilpreet Singh scoring India's fifth goal in the 60th minute and ensuring their first win in the away games of FIH Hockey Pro League this season.

Next up, India will take on Great Britain on 3rd June 2023.

&nbsp;

The Indian Men's Hockey Team registered a stunning 5-1 win against reigning Olympic Champions Belgium in their second match against them in the ongoing FIH Hockey Pro League at the Lee Valley Stadium in London on Friday.

The Indian Men's Hockey Team registered a stunning 5-1 win against reigning Olympic Champions Belgium in their second match against them in the ongoing FIH Hockey Pro League at the Lee Valley Stadium in London on Friday. India’s men turned the tables on Belgium in their #FIHProLeague encounter in London with an emphatic 5-1 win. Meanwhile, hosts Great Britain earned crucial 3 points despite two late goals from China. Here is our match day round-up: https://t.co/q5CesDXner@TheHockeyIndia… pic.twitter.com/xxf8j7IUYF — International Hockey Federation (@FIH_Hockey) June 2, 2023 × Harmanpreet at double India Captain Harmanpreet Singh scored twice (20', 30') while Vivek Sagar Prasad (2'), Amit Rohidas (29') and Dilpreet Singh (60') scored a goal each that helped the team avenge the 1-2 loss in their previous match against Belgium last week. With redemption on their mind, the Indian team got off to a rollicking start with a well-executed field goal in only the 2nd minute of the game which set the momentum for the game. It was Gurjant Singh who set up the goal for Vivek with a fine assist from the left flank. India built on this early success displayed good control of the ball, and showed the right temperament in their attacking structure. They mounted pressure on the Belgian defence when newcomer Sanjay forced the experienced Emmanuel Stockbroekx to make an error while making space in Belgium's half. The infringement resulted in India being awarded their first PC. Though they could not convert this opportunity, the PC battery made no mistake in the 20th minute when Harmanpreet picked up a good injection by Abhishek and used a long powerful dragflick to find the bottom corner of the post. A 2-0 lead put the Indian side in good stead, allowing them to play their natural game. They dominated the ball possession and continued to puncture the Belgian defence. In the 29th minute, Rajkumar Pal led the attack in the midfield, finding Mandeep on the right flank. Not taking the shot himself, Mandeep made a surprise pass to Amit Rohidas who took a successful shot on goal and put India in a comfortable 3-0 lead. In the following minute, India extended this lead to 4-0 when they won yet another PC. A good injection by Hardik Singh saw Amit lead the PC variation but his flick was blocked by the Belgian goalkeeper. However, the rebound was picked up by Harmanpreet Singh who broke no sweat in putting the ball past Loic Van Doren. ALSO READ | India's 1983 WC winning team backs protesting wrestlers, urges them to not immerse medals in Ganges Belgium’s improbable comeback Finding themselves on the backfoot with India taking a formidable lead at half-time, Belgium tested their opponent's PC defence when they were awarded back-to-back PCs at the start of the third quarter. Sreejesh, guarding the post, showcased some fine goalkeeping skills and eventually cleared the ball to safety. In the following quarter, Belgium finally found a breakthrough when William Ghislan scored a fine field goal in the 46th minute. Belgium's late comeback didn't dent India's game. Determined to finish well, they stuck to their structure and produced a good attack in the dying minutes which resulted in Dilpreet Singh scoring India's fifth goal in the 60th minute and ensuring their first win in the away games of FIH Hockey Pro League this season. Next up, India will take on Great Britain on 3rd June 2023.

FIH Hockey Pro League: India finds redemption in 5-1 win against Belgium

In a brilliant battle of equals, hosts Belgium beat Indian Men`s Hockey Team 3-2 in their second leg of their double-header this weekend at the FIH Hockey Pro League here. It was Abhishek (25`) who scored the match`s first goal while Mandeep Singh (60`) scored a late goal for India. Nicolas de Kerpel (33`) and Alexander Hendrickx (49`, 59`) were the goal scorers for the hosts. With this win, Belgium have pushed India to the third place in the pool standings while Netherlands continues to lead the table in this season`s prestigious FIH Hockey Pro League. 
 
It was hosts Belgium who got off to a flying start, showing their will to bounce back after losing to India 4-5 in a tense shootout on Saturday. After a few attempts, Belgium found an early opportunity in the 7th minute through a PC but a poor variation denied them a lead. Three minutes later, Jarmanpreet`s assist to Sukhjeet Singh at the top of the circle opened up a brilliant chance for India to take the lead but Sukhjeet`s shot went over the goalpost. Both teams played the next few minutes with caution, rotating the ball tactfully creating space but neither team were successful in scoring a goal. 
 
After showing patience in their game, India finally broke the deadlock in the 25th minute when Gurjant teamed up with Lalit Upadhyay to set up a brilliant goal by Abhishek. Ahead by 1-0 at half-time, India came out of the ten-minute half-time break with a clear intent to increase their lead.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afc-asian-cup-qualifiers-india-afg-players-engage-in-ugly-brawl-after-chhetri-cos-2-1-win-watch-487669">AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers: India, AFG players engage in ugly brawl after Chhetri &amp; Co.'s 2-1 win - WATCH</a> 
 
Harmanpreet Singh created one such opportunity when he assisted experienced forward Akashdeep Singh with a brilliant long pass only a minute and a half into the third quarter. Poised on top of the circle, Akashdeep took a strong shot on goal but it went straight to the Belgian goalie Vincent Vanasch who padded the ball away. Only moments later, Belgium scored a splendid goal in the 33rd minute when a good interception dispossessed India, setting up a brilliant run into the circle where Arthur de Sloover set up Nicolas de Kerpel to score. Kerpel sneaked the ball past India`s vigilant custodian Sreejesh, into the extreme right corner of the post. The goal fetched the hosts a much-needed equaliser as they built on this attack to create many more opportunities in the following minutes. 
 
The hosts succeeded in extending their lead when they were awarded a PC after a foot foul by Indian defenders inside their circle. Alexander Hendrickx was on target firing the ball past India`s PC defence. 
 
With just five minutes left for the final hooter, India found a fine opportunity when they won a PC after a good video referral call. But dragflick specialist Harmanpreet`s aim to net the top of the post was pushed away by Belgium`s experienced goalie Vanasch. With just minutes left before the final hooter, Belgium put India under pressure when they drove into the striking circle. This was when a desperate body tackle by Sreejesh saw India concede a penalty stroke which was converted by Hendrickx with ease. 
 
Though, India fought back to the final second, with Manpreet Singh setting up India`s second goal when he assisted Vivek Sagar in the circle. A quick-thinking Vivek pushed the ball to Mandeep Singh who deflected the ball past Belgium`s keeper to narrow the lead to 2-3. But unfortunately, with just 30 seconds left, India`s excellent fight back ended in disappointment.

In a brilliant battle of equals, hosts Belgium beat Indian Men`s Hockey Team 3-2 in their second leg of their double-header this weekend at the FIH Hockey Pro League here.

In a brilliant battle of equals, hosts Belgium beat Indian Men`s Hockey Team 3-2 in their second leg of their double-header this weekend at the FIH Hockey Pro League here. It was Abhishek (25`) who scored the match`s first goal while Mandeep Singh (60`) scored a late goal for India. Nicolas de Kerpel (33`) and Alexander Hendrickx (49`, 59`) were the goal scorers for the hosts. With this win, Belgium have pushed India to the third place in the pool standings while Netherlands continues to lead the table in this season`s prestigious FIH Hockey Pro League. It was hosts Belgium who got off to a flying start, showing their will to bounce back after losing to India 4-5 in a tense shootout on Saturday. After a few attempts, Belgium found an early opportunity in the 7th minute through a PC but a poor variation denied them a lead. Three minutes later, Jarmanpreet`s assist to Sukhjeet Singh at the top of the circle opened up a brilliant chance for India to take the lead but Sukhjeet`s shot went over the goalpost. Both teams played the next few minutes with caution, rotating the ball tactfully creating space but neither team were successful in scoring a goal. After showing patience in their game, India finally broke the deadlock in the 25th minute when Gurjant teamed up with Lalit Upadhyay to set up a brilliant goal by Abhishek. Ahead by 1-0 at half-time, India came out of the ten-minute half-time break with a clear intent to increase their lead. ALSO READ | AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers: India, AFG players engage in ugly brawl after Chhetri & Co.'s 2-1 win - WATCH Harmanpreet Singh created one such opportunity when he assisted experienced forward Akashdeep Singh with a brilliant long pass only a minute and a half into the third quarter. Poised on top of the circle, Akashdeep took a strong shot on goal but it went straight to the Belgian goalie Vincent Vanasch who padded the ball away. Only moments later, Belgium scored a splendid goal in the 33rd minute when a good interception dispossessed India, setting up a brilliant run into the circle where Arthur de Sloover set up Nicolas de Kerpel to score. Kerpel sneaked the ball past India`s vigilant custodian Sreejesh, into the extreme right corner of the post. The goal fetched the hosts a much-needed equaliser as they built on this attack to create many more opportunities in the following minutes. The hosts succeeded in extending their lead when they were awarded a PC after a foot foul by Indian defenders inside their circle. Alexander Hendrickx was on target firing the ball past India`s PC defence. With just five minutes left for the final hooter, India found a fine opportunity when they won a PC after a good video referral call. But dragflick specialist Harmanpreet`s aim to net the top of the post was pushed away by Belgium`s experienced goalie Vanasch. With just minutes left before the final hooter, Belgium put India under pressure when they drove into the striking circle. This was when a desperate body tackle by Sreejesh saw India concede a penalty stroke which was converted by Hendrickx with ease. Though, India fought back to the final second, with Manpreet Singh setting up India`s second goal when he assisted Vivek Sagar in the circle. A quick-thinking Vivek pushed the ball to Mandeep Singh who deflected the ball past Belgium`s keeper to narrow the lead to 2-3. But unfortunately, with just 30 seconds left, India`s excellent fight back ended in disappointment.

FIH Hockey Pro League: Olympic Champions Belgium beat India 3-2 in a hard-fought contest

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated experienced striker Rani on completing 250 International Caps. She achieved this incredible milestone during India`s match against Belgium in the FIH Hockey Pro League encounter in Antwerp, Belgium.

Rani, who has been on a long injury layoff after the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, is back in the reckoning with her first appearance in over ten months for Team India. An emotional Rani, who was feted by Indian Women`s Team chief coach Janneke Schopman ahead of the game, said, "It has been a very challenging year for me dealing with the prolonged injury but the one thing that kept me going was the desire to wear India jersey once again."

"I have worked very hard for this moment and I am very grateful to Hockey India and Sports Authority of India for their continued support and allowing me to work with the best physio during my rehabilitation process. I am also very grateful to the entire coaching staff and my teammates who have constantly motivated me, supported me over the past year."

"This is a very special moment for me. I consider this as a second innings in my career and it is doubly special that I am making a comeback to play my 250th match for the country against a strong opponent like Belgium. It is indeed a milestone to remember," added Rani.

In a career spanning over 12 years, Rani has led the Indian team to many successes including the historic fourth place finish at the Tokyo Olympics last year. She made her international debut in 2009 Champions Challenge at a tender age of 15, becoming the youngest player to represent the national team.

Hailing from Shahbaad Markanda in Haryana, she became the first Indian Women`s Hockey player to be nominated for the FIH Women`s Young Player of the Year Award.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-star-teenager-gm-r-praggnanandhaa-wins-norway-chess-open-487284">India's star teenager GM R Praggnanandhaa wins Norway Chess Open</a>

She was also given the "Best Young Player of the Tournament" award at the 2010 Women`s Hockey World Cup in Argentina. It was under her Captaincy that India created history as they won the Women`s Asia Cup in 2017 after 13 long years. Under her Captaincy, the team qualified for the Quarter Finals of the Vitality Hockey Women`s World Cup London 2018 and also won the Silver Medal at the 2018 Asian Games.

Rani was also felicitated with the Arjuna Award in 2016, World Games Athlete of the Year 2019, Hockey India Award for Best Women Player of the Year 2019, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2020 and Padma Shri Award 2020. She had also led the team to victory in the 2019 FIH Series Finals and was a catalyst in ensuring the Indian team made it to back-to-back Olympic Games with her stupendous performance in the FIH Olympic Qualifier in front of home crowd in Bhubaneswar where they beat USA.

Congratulating Rani, chief coach Janneke Schopman said, "Rani`s incredible journey from a very difficult economic circumstances back home in Shahbaad to becoming one of the most successful hockey players of her time has inspired many young players in India. She has worked very hard over the past year to earn back her India jersey, after a prolonged injury break. She is a very determined and hardworking player and I wish her the very best as well as congratulate her on achieving this incredible feat."

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated experienced striker Rani on completing 250 International Caps. She achieved this incredible milestone during India`s match against Belgium in the FIH Hockey Pro League encounter in Antwerp, Belgium.

Hockey India on Saturday congratulated experienced striker Rani on completing 250 International Caps. She achieved this incredible milestone during India`s match against Belgium in the FIH Hockey Pro League encounter in Antwerp, Belgium. Rani, who has been on a long injury layoff after the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, is back in the reckoning with her first appearance in over ten months for Team India. An emotional Rani, who was feted by Indian Women`s Team chief coach Janneke Schopman ahead of the game, said, "It has been a very challenging year for me dealing with the prolonged injury but the one thing that kept me going was the desire to wear India jersey once again." "I have worked very hard for this moment and I am very grateful to Hockey India and Sports Authority of India for their continued support and allowing me to work with the best physio during my rehabilitation process. I am also very grateful to the entire coaching staff and my teammates who have constantly motivated me, supported me over the past year." "This is a very special moment for me. I consider this as a second innings in my career and it is doubly special that I am making a comeback to play my 250th match for the country against a strong opponent like Belgium. It is indeed a milestone to remember," added Rani. In a career spanning over 12 years, Rani has led the Indian team to many successes including the historic fourth place finish at the Tokyo Olympics last year. She made her international debut in 2009 Champions Challenge at a tender age of 15, becoming the youngest player to represent the national team. Hailing from Shahbaad Markanda in Haryana, she became the first Indian Women`s Hockey player to be nominated for the FIH Women`s Young Player of the Year Award. ALSO READ | India's star teenager GM R Praggnanandhaa wins Norway Chess Open She was also given the "Best Young Player of the Tournament" award at the 2010 Women`s Hockey World Cup in Argentina. It was under her Captaincy that India created history as they won the Women`s Asia Cup in 2017 after 13 long years. Under her Captaincy, the team qualified for the Quarter Finals of the Vitality Hockey Women`s World Cup London 2018 and also won the Silver Medal at the 2018 Asian Games. Rani was also felicitated with the Arjuna Award in 2016, World Games Athlete of the Year 2019, Hockey India Award for Best Women Player of the Year 2019, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2020 and Padma Shri Award 2020. She had also led the team to victory in the 2019 FIH Series Finals and was a catalyst in ensuring the Indian team made it to back-to-back Olympic Games with her stupendous performance in the FIH Olympic Qualifier in front of home crowd in Bhubaneswar where they beat USA. Congratulating Rani, chief coach Janneke Schopman said, "Rani`s incredible journey from a very difficult economic circumstances back home in Shahbaad to becoming one of the most successful hockey players of her time has inspired many young players in India. She has worked very hard over the past year to earn back her India jersey, after a prolonged injury break. She is a very determined and hardworking player and I wish her the very best as well as congratulate her on achieving this incredible feat."

Hockey India congratulates women's team captain Rani Rampal as she completes 250 international caps

Defending champions India edge past Belgium into the semi-final of the FIH Men`s Junior Hockey World Cup 2021 in Bhubaneshwar on Wednesday.

Sharda Nand Tiwari's 21st-minute goal became the only difference between the two sides at the Kalinga Stadium.

India will now clash with six-time champions Germany in the semi-final. While Argentina will play against France as the latter cruised past Malaysia to enter the last-4.

As expected, the match started at a fast pace but remain pretty cagey for most of the first quarter. The team from Europe started on the front foot as they dominated possession but India grew into the match as the quarter progressed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-junior-world-cup-defending-champions-india-to-face-belgium-in-quarter-finals-433044">FIH Junior World Cup: Defending champions India to face Belgium in quarter-finals</a>

In the second-quarter vice-captain, Sanjay did the trick for the hosts as he won the penalty corner after storming down from the right flank.

India colts who have been clinical in the PC during the whole tournament made sure to utilise the big chance in the game as Sanjay came up with a variation that worked to utter perfection.

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Houston, we are into the semis 🇮🇳💙 
 
India Colts have done it 💪<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaKaGame?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaKaGame</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JWC2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JWC2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RisingStars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RisingStars</a> <a href="https://t.co/oSQmRk28PQ">pic.twitter.com/oSQmRk28PQ</a>
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheHockeyIndia/status/1466067555508834310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-hockey-mens-junior-wc-hosts-india-stumble-to-4-5-loss-in-opening-game-vs-france-431819">FIH Hockey Men's Junior WC: Hosts India stumble to 4-5 loss in opening game vs France</a>

He faked a drag flick and rounded it for Sharda Nand Tiwari who blasted it past the Belgium goal-keeper.In the second half, both sides had their chances to go in front but none were taken.

In the tense last fifteen minutes, Indian goalkeeper Pawan superbly held his nerve as he pulled off two big moments during Belgium`s PC to ensure hosts play SF against Germany.

Defending champions India edge past Belgium into the semi-final of the FIH Men`s Junior Hockey World Cup 2021 in Bhubaneshwar on Wednesday. Sharda Nand Tiwari's 21st-minute goal became the only difference between the two sides at the Kalinga Stadium.

Defending champions India edge past Belgium into the semi-final of the FIH Men`s Junior Hockey World Cup 2021 in Bhubaneshwar on Wednesday. Sharda Nand Tiwari's 21st-minute goal became the only difference between the two sides at the Kalinga Stadium. India will now clash with six-time champions Germany in the semi-final. While Argentina will play against France as the latter cruised past Malaysia to enter the last-4. As expected, the match started at a fast pace but remain pretty cagey for most of the first quarter. The team from Europe started on the front foot as they dominated possession but India grew into the match as the quarter progressed. ALSO READ: FIH Junior World Cup: Defending champions India to face Belgium in quarter-finals In the second-quarter vice-captain, Sanjay did the trick for the hosts as he won the penalty corner after storming down from the right flank. India colts who have been clinical in the PC during the whole tournament made sure to utilise the big chance in the game as Sanjay came up with a variation that worked to utter perfection. Houston, we are into the semis 🇮🇳💙 India Colts have done it 💪#IndiaKaGame #JWC2021 #RisingStars pic.twitter.com/oSQmRk28PQ — Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) December 1, 2021 × ALSO READ: FIH Hockey Men's Junior WC: Hosts India stumble to 4-5 loss in opening game vs France He faked a drag flick and rounded it for Sharda Nand Tiwari who blasted it past the Belgium goal-keeper.In the second half, both sides had their chances to go in front but none were taken. In the tense last fifteen minutes, Indian goalkeeper Pawan superbly held his nerve as he pulled off two big moments during Belgium`s PC to ensure hosts play SF against Germany.

FIH Junior World Cup: Defending champs India edge past Belgium 1-0 in thriller, to play Germany in semis

Having finished second in their preliminary round group following a defeat to France in their opening match, defending champions India take on top contender Belgium in the quarter-finals of the FIH Odisha Hockey Men's Junior World Cup here on Wednesday in a match that could make or break their fortunes in the event.

Victory will take them into the semi-finals while defeat would bring to a premature end their defence of the title India won at home in 2016. 
 
Belgium are ranked first in the World in Junior Rankings while India are fifth, the Red Devils are unbeaten so far in this event though being held to a draw by Malaysia is a blemish they have to carry into the match against India.

India on the other hand have recovered well after the 4-5 defeat against France to comprehensively beat Canada (13-1) and Poland (8-2).

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-hockey-mens-junior-wc-hosts-india-stumble-to-4-5-loss-in-opening-game-vs-france-431819">FIH Hockey Men's Junior WC: Hosts India stumble to 4-5 loss in opening game vs France</a>

Considering all these aspects, it will be a huge challenge for India when they take on Belgium in the key last-eight clash. Belgium are a very compact team and as India chief coach Graham Reid said it is in their DNA to "move the ball very quickly and with ability and confidence, which has come down from the senior team"

So, just like the senior team, Junior Red Devils are very dangerous, they defend well and are very aggressive attack. They are quick on counter-attack and are very good in penalty corner conversion, presenting a huge challenge for any team. 
 
"But there are also some vulnerabilities (in Belgium's play) that Malaysia had exploited and I am confident my team will be able to try that," said Reid. 
 
And India will have to take on this challenge without key midfielder Maninder Singh, who suffered a hamstring injury during the match against Poland and has not yet recovered from that. Coach Reid said Bobby Singh will replace him with Bobby Singh, who will have to manage the midfield with skipper Vivek Sagar Prasad. 
 
A strong and aggressive forward-line and abundant drag flickers have turned out to be the aces up the sleeves of the Indian team. Araijeet Singh Hundal and Uttam Singh have been India`s most successful forwards in the event so far with five and four goals respectively. Hundal has scored both field goals and off penalty corners and India will depend on him and defender Sanjay to do the bulk of the scoring. Sharda Nand Tiwari is another one who has been successful with his penalty corners. 
 
The Indians will have to guard against conceding early goals as they did against France and ensure that they defend deep and don't allow Belgium to take control of the midfield.

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-neeraj-chopra-to-mithali-raj-list-of-athletes-who-won-major-dhyan-chand-khel-ratna-award-in-2021-429094">From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021</a> 
 
Coach Reid accepted that his boys will have to be calm and composed during the entire match and should play with discipline and not get too many cards as they did against Poland. 
 
The hosts will take heart from India's victory against Belgium in the final of the 2016 edition at Lucknow. Though those were two different teams. "It does give us a boost that we are going into the match as defending champions but that is not a lot. Every tournament is different from another. What matters more is how you play on the day and what gives you more confidence in the fact that we have prepared well, played, and stayed together for months," said defender Yashdeep Siwach. 
 
India does have an edge in head-to-head, having won four of the five matches against Belgium in the U-21 stage. 
 
In other quarter-final matches on Wednesday, six-time champions Germany take on European rivals Spain, the Netherlands, looking to win their first title in the Junior World Cup, meet Argentina while France face Malaysia in third quarter-final.

Having finished second in their preliminary round group following a defeat to France in their opening match, defending champions India take on top contender Belgium in the quarter-finals of the FIH Odisha Hockey Men's Junior World Cup here on Wednesday in a match that could make or break their fortunes in the event.

Having finished second in their preliminary round group following a defeat to France in their opening match, defending champions India take on top contender Belgium in the quarter-finals of the FIH Odisha Hockey Men's Junior World Cup here on Wednesday in a match that could make or break their fortunes in the event. Victory will take them into the semi-finals while defeat would bring to a premature end their defence of the title India won at home in 2016. Belgium are ranked first in the World in Junior Rankings while India are fifth, the Red Devils are unbeaten so far in this event though being held to a draw by Malaysia is a blemish they have to carry into the match against India. India on the other hand have recovered well after the 4-5 defeat against France to comprehensively beat Canada (13-1) and Poland (8-2). ALSO READ: FIH Hockey Men's Junior WC: Hosts India stumble to 4-5 loss in opening game vs France Considering all these aspects, it will be a huge challenge for India when they take on Belgium in the key last-eight clash. Belgium are a very compact team and as India chief coach Graham Reid said it is in their DNA to "move the ball very quickly and with ability and confidence, which has come down from the senior team" So, just like the senior team, Junior Red Devils are very dangerous, they defend well and are very aggressive attack. They are quick on counter-attack and are very good in penalty corner conversion, presenting a huge challenge for any team. "But there are also some vulnerabilities (in Belgium's play) that Malaysia had exploited and I am confident my team will be able to try that," said Reid. And India will have to take on this challenge without key midfielder Maninder Singh, who suffered a hamstring injury during the match against Poland and has not yet recovered from that. Coach Reid said Bobby Singh will replace him with Bobby Singh, who will have to manage the midfield with skipper Vivek Sagar Prasad. A strong and aggressive forward-line and abundant drag flickers have turned out to be the aces up the sleeves of the Indian team. Araijeet Singh Hundal and Uttam Singh have been India`s most successful forwards in the event so far with five and four goals respectively. Hundal has scored both field goals and off penalty corners and India will depend on him and defender Sanjay to do the bulk of the scoring. Sharda Nand Tiwari is another one who has been successful with his penalty corners. The Indians will have to guard against conceding early goals as they did against France and ensure that they defend deep and don't allow Belgium to take control of the midfield. IN PICS: From Neeraj Chopra to Mithali Raj: List of athletes who won Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021 Coach Reid accepted that his boys will have to be calm and composed during the entire match and should play with discipline and not get too many cards as they did against Poland. The hosts will take heart from India's victory against Belgium in the final of the 2016 edition at Lucknow. Though those were two different teams. "It does give us a boost that we are going into the match as defending champions but that is not a lot. Every tournament is different from another. What matters more is how you play on the day and what gives you more confidence in the fact that we have prepared well, played, and stayed together for months," said defender Yashdeep Siwach. India does have an edge in head-to-head, having won four of the five matches against Belgium in the U-21 stage. In other quarter-final matches on Wednesday, six-time champions Germany take on European rivals Spain, the Netherlands, looking to win their first title in the Junior World Cup, meet Argentina while France face Malaysia in third quarter-final.

FIH Junior World Cup: Defending champions India to face Belgium in quarter-finals

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