India Faces Belgium for the First Time in Paris Olympics 2024

In a recent match at the Paris Olympics 2024, the Indian men’s hockey team faced off against the defending champions, Belgium, and unfortunately, it was not the result they were hoping for. India lost the match with a score of 2-1, marking the end of their unbeaten run in the tournament.

The match took place at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium in Colombes, where Abhishek opened the scoring for India in the 18th minute. He capitalized on a defensive blunder from Belgium and shot low to the right, giving India a brief lead.

However, Belgium responded strongly. Thibeau Stockbroekx equalized in the 33rd minute after a setup by Florent van Aubel. Then, just after the third quarter began, John-John Dohmen put Belgium ahead in the 44th minute. Despite some opportunities for India, Belgium’s defense held firm.

Prior to this match, the Indian team had already secured a place in the quarter-finals by winning two matches against Ireland and New Zealand, as well as drawing against Argentina. With this loss, they currently sit second in Pool B, trailing Belgium.

The Indian team, ranked sixth in the world, now looks forward to their next challenge as they prepare to face world number four, Australia, in their last Pool B game.