FIH Hockey Pro League: India go down 2-4 to Netherlands in shootout

India loses to World No.1 Netherlands in FIH Hockey Pro League

India rallied from an early setback to draw 1-1 before losing out in the penalty bonus shootout (2-4) to World No.1 Netherlands in the second round of FIH Hockey Pro League in Rourkela. Despite conceding an early goal, India refused to back down, with vice-captain Hardik Singh leveling the score in the third quarter.

The world’s top Dutch team was drawn 2-2 by Harmanpreet Singh’s side earlier in Bhubaneswar, where they went on to win a bonus point in shootouts. India continues to be placed fourth on the league table after gaining 10 points from five matches. The match saw goalkeeper Krishan Pathak showcasing his skills with a crucial save, but India ultimately faltered in their attempts, missing twice and conceding the tiebreak to the Netherlands.

The home crowd was delighted to see India’s determined effort, but the team will be looking to regroup and strategize for future matches in the league. Stay tuned for more updates on the FIH Hockey Pro League.