India suffered another defeat in the European leg of the FIH Pro League hockey tournament. In a match played on Thursday against Argentina, the Indian team lost 1-2.
Sports News: The Indian men's hockey team's European tour for the FIH Pro League 2024-25 has been extremely disappointing. On Thursday, India suffered their second consecutive defeat against Argentina, a loss made even more agonizing by a controversial penalty stroke in the final minutes. India lost the match 1-2, marking their fourth consecutive defeat on this tour.
India's Strong Start Despite Defeat
The match began encouragingly for India. Drag-flicker Jugraj Singh converted a penalty corner in the fourth minute, giving India an early lead and boosting team morale. India displayed aggressive play throughout the first quarter. However, Argentina quickly retaliated. Tomás Domene converted a penalty corner in the ninth minute to level the score at 1-1. Following this, both teams battled for possession, but neither could gain a decisive advantage.
In the final quarter, with India trailing 1-2, they earned a penalty stroke in the 58th minute. Hope rested once again on Jugraj Singh. He scored, but Argentina requested a video referral, claiming Jugraj's left foot was beyond the regulation line during the stroke, making the goal invalid.
This decision dealt a severe blow to India's hopes. However, Captain Hardik Singh immediately countered with a referral, arguing that Argentina's goalkeeper, Tomás Santiago, had advanced beyond the goal line. This time, the video umpire ruled in India's favor, allowing Jugraj to retake the stroke. Unfortunately, Argentina's goalkeeper saved Jugraj's shot, ending India's hopes of a draw.
Fourth Consecutive Defeat, Worrying Performance
This was India's fourth consecutive defeat in the European leg. Previously, the team lost:
- to Netherlands 1-2 and 2-3
- to Argentina 3-4
India will now face a b Australian team in Antwerp, Belgium on June 15th. Australia's recent form has been excellent, making this match a significant challenge for India.
