India beat Australia in Olympics men’s hockey after 52 years
The Indian men’s hockey team marked a significant milestone on Friday with a 3-2 victory over Australia in their Pool B match at the Paris Olympics. This win, achieved at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, is India’s first triumph against Australia in the Olympics since the 1972 Munich Games.
India had previously suffered a 1-2 defeat to the defending champions, Belgium. However, the team made a strong comeback with impressive performances from key players. Abhishek (12′) and captain Harmanpreet Singh (13′) scored within two minutes in the first quarter, giving India an early lead. Although Thomas Craig (25′) pulled Australia back into contention with a penalty corner goal, Harmanpreet restored India’s advantage with his second goal in the 32nd minute.
Blake Govers’ late penalty conversion in the 55th minute set up a tense finish, but India managed to hold on for the win, securing three crucial points.
The victory allowed India, the bronze medalists from Tokyo 2020, to climb to second place in Pool B with three wins, two draws, and one loss. Australia, now in third place, has a record of three wins and two losses. Belgium remains at the top of the pool with a perfect record, while Argentina rounds out the top four with two wins, one draw, and one loss.
With the quarterfinals of the men’s hockey competition scheduled to begin on August 4, India’s latest victory has bolstered their chances as they advance in the tournament.
