India wins thanks to a late shocker from Harmanpreet.
PARIS, JULY 27 : The stage was set for an epic clash, and the game delivered in spades. India’s Men’s Hockey team kicked off their Paris Olympics 2024 campaign with a pulse-pounding 3-2 victory over New Zealand in their Pool B opener.
In a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats, it was a dramatic last-minute goal by captain Harmanpreet Singh that sealed the fate of this exciting encounter.
From the first whistle, the game was a whirlwind of intense action and nail-biting moments. The Black Sticks drew first blood with Sam Lane’s early strike in the 8th minute, exploiting a penalty corner to take the lead. But India, ever resilient, came roaring back. Mandeep Singh leveled the score in the 24th minute, showcasing his knack for clutch performances.
The match’s intensity soared as the teams traded blows. Vivek Sagar Prasad put India ahead with a crucial goal in the 34th minute, only for Simon Child to level the score once more for New Zealand in the 53rd minute.
With the clock ticking down and the game hanging in the balance, it was a moment of sheer brilliance that would define the match.
As the 59th minute approached, India won a penalty corner, but a mistake on the initial attempt led to a penalty stroke. Under immense pressure, Harmanpreet stepped up and delivered a sublime finish, sending the ball past the New Zealand goalkeeper and into the net.
The stadium erupted as India took a 3-2 lead, a scoreline that would remain unchallenged despite New Zealand’s frantic efforts to find an equaliser.
The game was a testament to India’s grit and determination, with standout performances from both sides. PR Sreejesh, India’s stalwart goalkeeper, made several crucial saves, including an extraordinary display of reflexes to deny New Zealand multiple penalty corners. The defense, led by Amit Rohidas and Sanjay, held firm under relentless pressure.
This thrilling victory not only gives India a crucial win in their quest to advance to the quarterfinals but also sets a tone of resilience and flair as they continue their Olympic journey. Fans can only hope for more such exhilarating performances as the tournament progresses.(UNI)
