The Indian Men’s Hockey Team delivered an exceptional performance, securing a 4-1 victory against Spain in their inaugural match of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 season at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium, Bhubaneswar. Harmanpreet Singh exhibited an exemplary performance with two goals, while Jugraj Singh and Lalit Upadhyay each contributed with a goal.
India commenced the game strongly, with Hardik Singh’s impressive run from the right flank earning them the first penalty corner, which Harmanpreet successfully converted with a powerful low drag-flick, granting India an early lead of 1-0 in the 7th minute. Despite Spain’s dominance in possession, India’s disciplined defence ensured that they maintained their narrow lead throughout the opening quarter.
In the second quarter, Spain made attempts to equalise, but Indian goalkeeper PR Sreejesh thwarted their efforts. India then extended their lead with a penalty stroke from Harmanpreet and another goal from Jugraj Singh, resulting in a comfortable 3-0 lead at halftime.
Spain managed to secure a goal in the third quarter through a penalty stroke, but India maintained their lead and further widened the gap with a goal from Lalit Upadhyay in the final quarter. India’s robust defence, led by Sreejesh, effectively foiled Spain’s attempts to narrow the lead.
The team’s triumph has established a promising start to the season, and they are scheduled to face the Netherlands in their upcoming match. Fans can witness all the action of the FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 on JioCinema, with India’s matches also being televised on Sports18 – Khel.
The victory of the Indian Men’s Hockey Team against Spain is a testament to their expertise and resilience, and fans eagerly anticipate their forthcoming matches in the FIH Pro League.