India’s men’s hockey team kicked off their Paris 2024 Olympics campaign with a thrilling 3-2 victory over New Zealand at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium on July 27, 2024.
The match showcased a dramatic turnaround, with Harmanpreet Singh scoring a crucial penalty stroke in the final moments, securing the win for India.
The match began with New Zealand taking an early lead in the eighth minute through Sam Lane, who converted a penalty corner after a defensive error by India. Despite controlling much of the play, India found themselves trailing 0-1 at the end of the first quarter.
India responded strongly in the second quarter. Mandeep Singh equalized in the 25th minute after a scramble in front of the goal following a penalty corner. This goal shifted the momentum, and India took the lead shortly after, with Vivek Sagar Prasad scoring in the 34th minute.
Paris 2024 Olympics hockey: India beat New Zealand Highlights
First Quarter: New Zealand’s early goal put India on the back foot. Despite several attempts, including a near miss by Abhishek, India struggled to find the net.
Second Quarter: Mandeep’s goal not only levelled the score but also energized the Indian side. The team maintained pressure, and Vivek’s goal gave them a 2-1 lead at halftime.
Third Quarter: India continued to dominate, but New Zealand’s resilience showed as they earned multiple penalty corners. Simon Child managed to convert one of these opportunities, bringing the score to 2-2 in the 50th minute.
Final Moments: In a nail-biting finish, Harmanpreet Singh was awarded a penalty stroke with just two minutes left. He successfully converted it, securing the win for India and sending the crowd into a frenzy.
This match not only marked a successful start for India in Pool B of the tournament but also highlighted their determination and skill under pressure.
With this victory, India aims to build momentum as they face tougher opponents in the coming matches, including reigning champions Belgium and formidable teams like Australia and Argentina.
The performance of veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who made crucial saves throughout the match, was particularly noteworthy as he approaches the end of his Olympic career.
