Image Source: livemint.com
In a historic achievement, the Indian men’s hockey team secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Australia in their final Pool B match at the Paris Olympics 2024 on Friday. This win marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time India has defeated Australia in hockey at the Olympics since the 1972 Munich Games, ending a 52-year wait.
Match Highlights:
- Indian Goals: Abhishek and Harmanpreet Singh (who scored twice) were instrumental in India’s success.
- Australian Goals: Thomas Craig and Blake Govers scored for Australia.
This victory is not just a triumph over a formidable opponent but also a crucial boost for India’s standings. With this win, India has climbed to the second position in Pool B, accumulating 10 points from their five matches.
India’s Journey in Pool B:
- Start of Campaign: India began with a win against New Zealand.
- Midway Performance: They drew against Argentina.
- Follow-up: India defeated Ireland before the historic win against Australia.
Current Standings:
- Pool B Leader: Belgium.
- Australia’s Position: Third place.
India’s performance throughout the group stage has been commendable, showcasing resilience and tactical acumen. The team’s journey through the group stage highlights their consistent form and readiness for the knockout rounds.
This landmark victory not only brings immense pride to Indian hockey fans but also revives hopes for the team’s future in the sport. As the Indian team progresses in the Paris Olympics, this historic win against Australia will be remembered as a pivotal moment in their campaign.