India displayed an exceptional performance, defeating Australia 3-2 in their final men’s hockey Pool B match at the Paris Olympics 2024 on August 2, securing their place in the quarterfinals and thrilling fans with their skillful play.
It was the 1972 Olympics in Munich when the last time India had defeated Australia in men’s hockey (3-1). Since then, the two sides met on seven occasions in Olympics, with Australia winning a six and one ending in a draw. Ahead of tonight’s match, the Aussies entered as overwhelming favourites too, but Harmanpreet’s men defied the odds to clinch a brilliant 3-2 win.
For India, Abhishek and Harmanpreet Singh (2) scored while Thomas Craig and Blake Govers scored for Australia. This match was crucial for India (10 points, 5 matches) as a win which helped the side finish second in Pool B.
Veteran India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, playing his last international tournament, was spectacular under the bar, making numerous saves to keep his side’s lead intact.
Australia have nine points from five games. Chasing a second successive medal at the Olympics, the Indian hockey team suffered its first loss of the 2024 edition yesterday, going down 1-2 to defending champions Belgium after letting slip a one goal lead.
With this, the Indian side have qualified for the quarterfinal stage. Earlier they beat Ireland 2-0 and New Zealand 3-2 in their opening to games before drawing 1-1 against Argentina.
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