Indian Women's Hockey Team Faces Defeat Against Belgium in FIH Pro League
Match Overview
In Antwerp, Belgium, on June 21, the Indian women's hockey team suffered a significant defeat, losing 1-5 to Belgium during the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024/25.
Game Highlights
The match was intense, with Belgium earning 17 penalty corners. India initially took the lead with a goal from Deepika in the 6th minute. However, Belgium responded with goals from Helene Brasseur (37', 55'), Lucie Breyne (41'), Ambre Ballenghien (54'), and Charlotte Englebert (58'), all of which were scored from penalty corners.
First Half Analysis
India started nervously, facing immediate pressure from Belgium, who earned a penalty corner in the first minute. Fortunately, Savita made a crucial save to keep the score level. An error from India allowed Belgium another chance, but Vaishnavi intercepted effectively.
India absorbed the pressure and capitalized on their first opportunity, resulting in a penalty corner. Deepika's shot deflected off a Belgian defender, putting India ahead.
Second Half Developments
As the second quarter progressed, India managed to create space in midfield despite Belgium's dominance. Belgium earned two more penalty corners, but India defended well. A strong run from Navneet led to two consecutive penalty corners, but a powerful shot from Navneet was saved by goalkeeper Elena Sotgiu. Just before halftime, Lisa Moors attempted to equalize with a strike from inside the circle, but Bichu Devi made a vital save.
Entering the third quarter, Belgium maintained pressure, achieving 10 circle entries compared to India's four. After five penalty corners, Helene Brasseur finally scored, leveling the match. Shortly after, Lucie Breyne scored from close range, giving Belgium a 2-1 lead.
Final Quarter and Conclusion
In the final quarter, India struggled to penetrate the Belgian defense. Belgium dominated the last ten minutes, with Ambre Ballenghien scoring in the 54th minute to extend the lead to 3-1. Five minutes later, Brasseur scored again from a penalty corner, and just before the match concluded, Charlotte Englebert added a penalty stroke, finalizing the score at 5-1 in favor of Belgium. The Indian women's hockey team is set to face Belgium again on Sunday.