Indian men lose 2-3 against the Netherlands in FIH Hockey Pro League

The Indian men’s team went down fighting 2-3 against the Netherlands in a thrilling FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25 at the Wagener Hockey Stadium here. Abhishek (20') and Jugraj Singh (54') netted a goal each for India, while Thijs van Dam (24’), Tjep Hoedemakers (33’), and Jip Janssen (57’) were the goalscorers for the Netherlands.

India began the first quarter with a clear intent to control the game, maintaining possession and executing quick passes to penetrate the opposition’s defence early on. In the sixth minute, forward Abhishek nearly put India ahead when he found space inside the D and unleashed a powerful shot that narrowly missed the target.

The Netherlands responded with a switch to counter-attacking play, creating a few scoring chances of their own. However, the Indian defence held firm under pressure, calmly absorbing the attacks while continuing to challenge the Dutch backline at the other end. Despite the fast-paced, end-to-end action, the opening quarter ended goalless.

The second quarter saw the Netherlands ramp up their intensity, adopting a more aggressive approach and nearly taking the lead with two close chances in quick succession. But India remained composed, sticking to their possession-based strategy and dictating the tempo through midfield control.

India also won their first penalty corner of the match, but Harmanpreet Singh’s shot was deflected out. India’s persistence finally paid off when Abhishek (20th), playing his milestone 100th international match, broke free from his marker and finished clinically after receiving a perfectly timed pass from Shilanand Lakra, giving India a 1-0 lead.