The Indian hockey team faced its first defeat in the Olympic Games, losing 1-2 to defending champions Belgium in a pool match on Thursday. Despite taking an early lead, India could not maintain their advantage. Abhishek put India ahead in the 18th minute, but Belgium responded strongly in the second half with goals from Thibeau Stockbroekx in the 33rd minute and John-John Dohmen in the 44th minute to secure the win. Both teams have already qualified for the quarterfinals from Pool B.
India had previously defeated New Zealand 3-2 and drawn 1-1 against Argentina before beating Ireland 2-0. Their next and final pool match is against Australia on Friday. In the match against Belgium, India dominated possession and created more chances in the first two quarters. The Indian defence, led by veteran custodian PR Sreejesh, who is playing his last international tournament, initially held strong, denying Belgium several scoring opportunities including two penalty corners.
Abhishek’s goal came after he intercepted a ball from Arthur de Sloover and skillfully manoeuvred past the Belgian defence to score. Despite India’s promising start, Belgium ramped up their attack in the second half. Florent van Aubel set up Stockbroekx’s equalizer, and Belgium took the lead when Dohmen capitalized on a rebound during a penalty corner.
Although India created several chances in the final quarter and earned penalty corners, they could not penetrate the resilient Belgian defence. As the tournament progresses, India will aim to regroup and focus on their upcoming match against Australia.