Indian Hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh's last-minute goal helped India to defeat New Zealand in the opening clash of the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024. India and New Zealand were on 2-2 during the last quarter but it was Harmanpreet's goal in penalty stroke which helped India to get a positive start in the marquee event.
It was not an easy win as New Zealand took the lead in the eighth minute through Sam Lane from their first penalty corner. But India bounced back strongly to first level the scores in the 24th minute through Mandeep Singh, who scored from a rebound off a penalty corner, and then took the lead through Vivek Sagar Prasad in the third quarter.
India made a strong start to the match, buoyed by the enthusiastic support of their fans. They employed a high-pressing style, attacking from both flanks and launching aerial balls into the New Zealand circle. Abhishek nearly opened the scoring with a shot that was saved by goalkeeper Dominic Dixon.
However, New Zealand struck first against the run of play. A defensive error by Vivek Sagar Prasad led to a penalty corner, which Sam Lane converted.
As the Black Sticks began to dominate possession, Amit Rohidas was instrumental in India's defense with a series of crucial tackles and clearances.
India continued to search for openings, making frequent positional changes to disrupt the New Zealand defense. However, the Black Sticks remained organized and countered effectively.
New Zealand earned two consecutive penalty corners and equalized through Mandeep Singh. Despite Mandeep's attempt to regain the lead, New Zealand's goalkeeper Dixon made a crucial save. However, India persisted and regained the lead through Vivek Sagar Prasad after a goalmouth scramble.
India's defense, often criticized for conceding penalty corners, made significant improvements, blocking four consecutive corners. Sukhjeet Singh showcased his skills with some impressive passes in the final quarter.
New Zealand displayed resilience, earning three consecutive penalty corners and scoring from the final attempt through their veteran player Simon Child.
India responded quickly, with Harmanpreet Singh converting a penalty stroke in the 59th minute to delight the home crowd.
India will now face Argentina for their second match of the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024 which is scheduled to take place on July 29.
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