India secured a dramatic bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, defeating Spain 2-1 in a thrilling hockey match. Captain Harmanpreet Singh's heroics, with two crucial goals, led the team to victory and a successful defense of their Tokyo Olympics bronze. The win marked a fitting farewell for legendary goalkeeper PR Sreejesh. This was also India's fourth medal for India at the Paris Olympics. India's victory marks a historic achievement, as it is the first time the country has won consecutive hockey medals at the Olympics since the 1972 Munich Games. Building on their bronze medal win at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, India has now secured its 13th overall hockey medal.
India's journey to the bronze medal match was marked by resilience and determination. The team showcased their prowess by finishing second in their group, including a remarkable victory over Australia. Despite facing adversity, such as playing with ten men for over 40 minutes against Great Britain, India secured a memorable win. Although a late goal denied them a place in the gold medal match, their fighting spirit remained unwavering.
The bronze medal match against Spain was a tale of two halves. Spain dominated the first half, displaying impressive energy and control. Their aggressive tactics and superior possession kept the Indian defense on the back foot. India struggled to counter Spain's attacks, and the Spanish team's efficiency was evident when Marc Miralles converted a penalty stroke in the 18th minute to take the lead.
India displayed remarkable resilience, bouncing back from the early setback. With time running out in the first half, a stroke of luck favored India when the ball struck Pepe Cunill's leg inside the circle, resulting in a penalty corner. Harmanpreet Singh, India's penalty corner specialist, made no mistake, equalizing the score with just seconds remaining before halftime.
India carried the momentum into the second half, and their aggressive play paid dividends. Harmanpreet Singh once again showcased his prowess, converting another penalty corner to give India the crucial lead.
Spain mounted a determined effort towards the end of the third quarter, initially celebrating a goal from a penalty corner. However, an Indian referral overturned the decision after replays showed that the ball had struck Marc Recasens' hands before entering the net. Undeterred, Spain continued to attack with intensity, but India's defense held firm. In the final quarter, India not only defended resolutely but also initiated dangerous counter-attacks, keeping Spain on the back foot.
The bronze medal match marked a poignant farewell for the legendary goalkeeper, PR Sreejesh, who made his international debut in 2006. He was instrumental in India's previous Olympic bronze medal win in Tokyo in 2020.
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