Paris Olympics 2024: India Defeats Australia At Men’s Hockey Match After 52 Years

After a gap of 52 years, the Indian hockey team defeated world No.4 Australia in the men’s hockey pool B match at the Paris Olympics 2024 on Friday.

This was India’s maiden match against Australia in the Olympics. The last match was played at Munich in 1972.

Major Highlights Of The Match

India won the match with a score of 3-2. Earlier, the Indian team began the match with a strong start by taking a 2-0 lead. Thus, reaching the second quarter.

In the 12th minute, Abhishek got his second goal via open play. Later in 13th, Indian captain  Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner (PC). Despite Australians making a dent, Goalkeeper  P.R. Sreejesh was more than ready to handle the task.

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But at halftime, Australia managed to lessen the lead to 1-2  and in 25th minute, Thomas Craig scored a goal.

However in third quarter, Harmanpreet continued to capitalize on India’s advantage, by scoring from a penalty stroke following a successful video review.

Despite Australia fighting hard in final quarter, so much so, that it gave a mini scare to India, as Blake Glovers scored 3-2 from penalty stroke.

Amidst the challenge, India still kept its cool and ended the group stage on a high note.

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