In a landmark victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Indian men’s hockey team defeated Australia 3-2 in their final Pool B match, marking India’s first Olympic win against the Australians in 52 years.
The match, held on August 2, 2024, at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, was a crucial encounter for both teams as they aimed to secure favorable positions heading into the knockout stages.
India vs Australia Men’s Hockey, Paris Olympics 2024: Match Overview
Goals for India:
- Abhishek (1st quarter)
- Harmanpreet Singh (2 goals, including one penalty stroke)
Goals for Australia:
- Thomas Craig
- Blake Govers
India vs Australia Men’s Hockey, Paris Olympics 2024: Match Highlights
- First Quarter: India started the match with high intensity. Abhishek opened the scoring early, giving India a 1-0 lead. Harmanpreet Singh quickly followed up with a penalty stroke, extending the lead to 2-0.
- Second Quarter: Australia responded with a goal from Thomas Craig, reducing the deficit to 2-1. Despite this, India maintained composure, showcasing strong defensive skills and effective counter-attacks.
- Third Quarter: Harmanpreet Singh scored again, converting another penalty stroke to make it 3-1. This goal proved pivotal as it reestablished a two-goal cushion for India.
- Final Minutes: In a tense finish, Blake Govers scored for Australia, bringing the score to 3-2. Australia intensified their efforts, even pulling their goalkeeper for an extra attacker, but India’s defense held firm, ensuring the victory.
This victory is particularly significant as it breaks a 52-year drought against Australia in Olympic competition, with the last win dating back to the 1972 Munich Olympics. Historically, Australia has been a dominant force in men’s hockey, making this win a monumental achievement for the Indian team.
With this win, India finishes the group stage with 10 points from five matches, securing the second spot in Pool B behind Belgium, who topped the group. The results from the group stage are as follows:
India’s Performance at Olympics 2024:
- Win against New Zealand
- Draw with Argentina
- Win against Ireland
- Loss to Belgium
- Win against Australia
Olympics 2024 Hockey Current Standings:
- 1st: Belgium (12 points)
- 2nd: India (10 points)
- 3rd: Australia (9 points)
India’s victory not only boosts morale but also sets the stage for a strong performance in the upcoming knockout rounds. The team, aiming for a medal, will carry this momentum forward as they prepare to face tougher opponents in the quarter-finals.
This historic win has energized Indian fans and players alike, reigniting hopes for a return to Olympic glory in men’s hockey.
