Indian Hockey Team Secures Historic 3-2 Victory Over Mighty Australia | First Win at Olympic Games Since 1972 Munich

Paris, 2nd August 2024: In a thrilling Pool B encounter at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium on Friday, the Indian Hockey Team showcased their true potential by defeating Australia 3-2. This victory marks India’s first win against Australia in 52 years, the last being at the Munich Olympic Games in 1972. Goals from Abhishek (12′) and Harmanpreet Singh (13′, 32′) were crucial in this historic win, with goalkeeper PR Sreejesh delivering a stellar performance.

Captain Harmanpreet Singh expressed his elation after the match, stating, “I think we ticked off all the right boxes today. Starting the way we did and then some brilliant saves by Sreejesh ensured we stayed ahead in the game. It is a special win ahead of the Quarter-Finals. It gives us a lot of confidence.”

India got off to a dream start with aggressive attacking and relentless defense. Despite missing an early chance when Jarmanpreet delivered a fine cross to an unmarked Shamsher Singh inside the D, the team quickly rallied with goals by Abhishek and Harmanpreet. Abhishek scored the opening goal in the 12th minute, followed by the Skipper doubling the lead in the 13th minute. Sreejesh’s remarkable reflexes kept Australia from scoring.

Australia intensified their attack in the second quarter, with Tim Brand attempting a shot on goal but missing the mark. Thomas Craig finally found the back of the net for Australia, converting a penalty corner in the 25th minute despite Manpreet Singh’s commendable defensive effort.

At half-time, Indian hockey maintained higher ball possession and a lead, thanks to Sreejesh’s multiple saves denying Australia an equalizer. The third quarter began with a stunning save from Sreejesh, allowing Mandeep to launch a counter-attack that earned India a penalty corner. A referral upheld by the third umpire awarded India a penalty stroke, which Harmanpreet Singh converted effortlessly, putting India ahead 3-1 in the 32nd minute.

Indian hockey continued their offensive strategy while maintaining a solid defense, particularly through Jarmanpreet’s efforts. Despite Australia’s attempts, they struggled to breach India’s defense in the final quarter. The match remained intense until the end, with Australia converting a penalty stroke in the 55th minute through Blake Govers. However, Indian hockey held their nerve to secure the memorable win.

India will play in the Quarter-Finals on Sunday, 4th August. Matches will be live on Sports18 and JioCinema.

Key Highlights of Indian Hockey match against Australia:

• Historic Win: First victory against Australia at the Olympic Games since 1972.
• Goal Scorers: Abhishek (12′), Harmanpreet Singh (13′, 32′).
• Stellar Goalkeeping: PR Sreejesh’s crucial saves.
• Upcoming Match: Quarter-Finals on 4th August.

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