Belgium defeats India in penalty shootout after 3-3 draw in Hockey World Cup

Belgium beat India (AP Photo)

India’s spirited fightback ended in heartbreak as Belgium prevailed in a tense penalty shootout after the two sides played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in regulation time. India had made the brighter start and took the lead through Abhishek, whose sixth-minute field goal gave the hosts a 1-0 advantage. Belgium responded with sustained pressure, earning multiple penalty corners, but India’s defence held firm. The match changed dramatically in the second quarter. Roman Duvekot restored parity for Belgium with a close-range finish before Hugo Labouchere put them ahead with a powerful drag-flick from a penalty corner. Belgium went into half-time 2-1 up. India came out strongly after the break and levelled through captain Harmanpreet Singh, who converted a penalty corner with a superb drag-flick in the 31st minute. Belgium challenged the goal with a review, but the decision went India's way. The third quarter remained fiercely contested, with Belgium applying pressure and India creating opportunities of their own. Despite Belgium enjoying more possession, India held their shape to take the scores level at 2-2 into the final quarter.

Belgium strike again, India refuse to give up

Belgium regained the lead in the 47th minute when Nicolas de Kerpel fired home a field goal. The goal was referred for a possible obstruction, but the original decision was upheld and Belgium moved 3-2 ahead. India were dealt another blow when veteran Manpreet Singh took a stick to the face and left the field for medical attention. With time running out, India pulled their goalkeeper in favour of an additional outfield player and threw numbers forward in search of an equaliser. Their gamble paid off in dramatic fashion. Harmanpreet struck again in the 60th minute, finding the target to make it 3-3 and force a penalty shootout.

Shootout drama ends India's hopes

The shootout began disastrously for India. Harmanpreet's first attempt was saved by Belgium goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch after the Indian captain appeared to stop while expecting a whistle. Belgium converted their opening attempt, while Vanasch then denied Sukhjeet Singh as well.

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India eventually found their rhythm. Shilanand Lakra opened India's account before Belgium restored their advantage. Dilpreet Singh then converted to bring the shootout level at 2-2. Belgium regained the lead through a penalty stroke after Mohith was penalised for a foul on Van Dessel, with Hendrickx converting. India stayed alive when Abhishek scored to make it 3-3. The decisive moment came when Duvekot found the target for Belgium. India took a referral in an attempt to overturn the decision, but the call stood. Belgium therefore won the shootout and ended India's brave fight after an extraordinary contest and they finish 8th in this World Cup.

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