Indian hockey legend lavished praise on the Harmanpreet-led side after they defeated Australia in the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. Team India defeated Australia for the first time after 52 years in the Olympics. India stunned Australia 3-2 to register their first win over Australia in the Olympic Games since 1972 Munich Games.
Skipper Harmanpreet Singh scored a brace as India registered the famous win over Tokyo Games silver medallist and nemesis Australia in its final pool match.
In 1972 Munich Games, hockey was played for the first time in astro-turf.
"Australia has always dominated us. After the 1972 Olympics we have always been battered by Australia. But the way our team played today, it was heartening to see. Out of the four quarters, India dominated three, only in the second Quarter India were on the back-foot a bit," Ajit Pal told PTI video.
"The way India played today, they taught the Australians how to play hockey.
"We can beat any team now and I would like to congratulate all the hockey lovers in India and can only say 'Well done Boys!'," he added.
The 1975 World Cup-winning captain also lauded skipper Harmanpreet Singh and described him as the heart and soul of the side.
"Harmanpreet is the life and soul of the team. In the previous games, he equalised with his goal and one of his goals was the match winner. Today also he was outstanding. Also, Jarmanpreet Singh, I am very happy to see that boy, he was
really fighting.
"Abhishek, Sukhjeet (Singh), Hardik (Singh) were too good but the forward line players need to step up. Those players have the potential and I expect them to come good in the games ahead," Ajit Pal said.
"Sreejesh as usual made the team feel at ease. When he is there, the team doesn't need to worry," he added.
India stunned Australia by taking the lead through Abhishek in the 12th minute. It was Lalit, who received a pass in an empty D, he attempted a shot but that was saved by goalie Andrew Charter. Abhishek got the ball on rebound, turned, and hammered the it past rival goalkeeper Andrew Charter.
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