LONDON, JUNE 1 : In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the India men’s hockey team triumphed over the reigning world champions Germany with a decisive 3-0 win in their FIH Pro League 2023-24 match at the Lee Valley Hockey Stadium here on Saturday.

India’s victory was orchestrated by goals from Harmanpreet Singh (16′), Sukhjeet Singh (41′), and Gurjant Singh (44′), marking a powerful start to their UK leg of the tournament.

This win earned India three crucial points, solidifying their third position on the FIH Pro League points table, just behind the Netherlands and Argentina. The Tokyo Olympics bronze medallists have now secured five wins out of 13 matches this season.

The match kicked off with intense action in the opening quarter as both teams displayed formidable strength. The Indian forward line, led by Sukhjeet Singh and Mandeep Singh, was relentless, while goalkeeper PR Sreejesh stood as a formidable barrier against Germany’s penalty corners.

The deadlock was broken in the second quarter when skipper Harmanpreet Singh delivered a precise strike past German keeper Alexander Stadler, putting India ahead 1-0. Strong defensive plays, supported by Sreejesh’s outstanding goalkeeping, ensured India maintained their lead into the half-time break.

India’s momentum continued in the third quarter with Sukhjeet Singh’s clean finish in the 41st minute, following a brilliant play involving Abhishek. Merely three minutes later, Gurjant Singh extended India’s lead to 3-0, thanks to a superb assist from Harmanpreet Singh.

With a comfortable lead, India focused on maintaining their advantage in the final quarter. Despite a determined effort from the young German side, which included back-to-back penalty corners, India’s defense held firm, securing a clean sheet.

Next, India will face hosts Great Britain in their FIH Pro League campaign on Sunday, aiming to build on their impressive performance.(UNI)