The Indian men's hockey team put out an impressive performance against Olympic champions Belgium but not enough to win the match as it ended in a 2-2 draw. Belgium prevailed in the penalty shootout 3-1 to ensure they took home the bonus point.
Last time when these two teams met, Belgium was the better side, having converted the chances to win 4-1. On Saturday, it was India who played better hockey against the home side. Craig Fulton's side started the match really well and started creating chances right from the first quarter.
The opening goal was scored in the 11th minute, when Sukhjeet Singh superbly controlled a long ball inside the circle, made space and pushed it towards Araijeet Singh Hundal who made no mistake to flick it in from a close range.
After the opening goal, India went close multiple times but Belgian goalkeeper and one of the best in the world Vincent Vanasch pulled off superb saves to deny India from doubling their lead. Just before the half-time, Belgium equalised thanks to Felix Denayer's quick reflexes on a penalty corner rebound. It was their first proper chance but they ensured they made it 1-1.
Post the break, India kept playing well but couldn't create clear cut chances. Eventually, it was Belgium who scored the second goal, again from a rebound effort by Florent van Aubel after PR Sreejesh saved a dragflick chance against Alexander Hendrickx.
It looked like India will endure a tough loss despite playing well but Sukhjeet Singh converted from a close range in the 57th minute to make it 2-2.
In the penalty shootout, India could score only one goal via Sukhjeet with Vanasch standing tall again to deny the rest of the chances. Belgium scored three goals to take home the bonus point.
India next plays Argentina tomorrow, their last match of the Antwerp leg Pro League.
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