In a stunning turn of events at the Paris Olympics, the Indian hockey team achieved a remarkable victory by defeating gold medal favorites Australia 3-2 in their final Group B match. This victory is historic, as it is the first time India has beaten Australia in the Olympics since the 1972 Munich Games, ending a 52-year losing streak against the Kookaburras at the Summer Games.
A Strong Start for India
The Indian team started the match with exceptional energy and skill, catching Australia off guard. Although Shamsher Singh missed a golden opportunity to score early on, India soon took control of the game. They capitalized on an Australian penalty corner and took the lead within the opening minutes thanks to a goal from Abhishek.
HISTORY MADE at the #Paris2024 #Olympics
For the first time in 52 years, the #IndianHockey team has defeated Australia in Olympic play!
This monumental victory secures their spot in the Quarterfinals, finishing 2nd behind Belgium#Olympia2024 #INDvsAUS #Hockey pic.twitter.com/uktR6jjXN3
— Ritam English (@EnglishRitam) August 2, 2024
As the first quarter came to a close, India doubled their advantage when Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner, putting India ahead 2-0.
In the second quarter, Australia responded with increased aggression and attacking intent. Indian goalkeeper Sreejesh made two crucial saves to keep his team ahead. However, Australia managed to score through Thomas Craig, reducing India’s lead to 2-1 by the end of the first half.
Harmanpreet Singh’s Heroics
The third quarter saw India regain their two-goal lead early on, with Harmanpreet Singh scoring from a penalty stroke, completing his brace and making it 3-1. His performance was instrumental in maintaining India’s advantage throughout the game.
The final quarter was filled with tension as India believed they had secured the win when Amit Rohidas scored a fourth goal. However, this goal was disallowed, leaving India with a slender 3-2 lead. Australia managed to pull another goal back through a penalty stroke, making the final score 3-2.
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With this victory, India has qualified for the quarterfinals of the Paris Olympics, finishing second in their group. They are set to face an opponent on a slightly easier side of the draw, giving them a promising chance to advance further in the tournament. Harmanpreet Singh’s leadership and crucial goals were pivotal in this extraordinary performance, and the Indian team’s resilience and skill were on full display throughout the match.
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