Dusseldorf, Jun 5:
India’s dragflick sensation Harmanpreet Singh scored twice to ensure a 3-2 victory over Belgium in a battle of nerves at the Three Nations Invitational Tournament here today.
Earlier in the tournament, India had lost 1-2 to Belgium in their first match and drew 2-2 with Germany in their second game. It was goals by Harmanpreet Singh (34′, 38′) and forward Ramandeep Singh (49′) that helped India win.
After losing their previous game 1-2 to Germany yesterday, Belgium made a strong start against India by playing an attacking game right from the word go.
The 2016 Rio Olympics silver medallists showed precision and were dominant with skill and ball possession. Though India caught them on the wrong foot early on by earning back-to-back PCs, they could not convert the chances.
Belgium, however, came up with a brilliant field goal, thanks to Amaury Keusters, to take a 1-0 lead in the 13th minute and put India under pressure.
India played cautiously in the second quarter, not allowing Belgian attackers easy penetration inside the striking circle. Meanwhile, India won two PCs in the 23rd and 24th minute but Harmanpreet’s well-struck flick was blocked by Belgian defenders. The second quarter went goalless.
Going into the second half, India continued to trail but their breakthrough came in the 34th minute when they bagged their fifth PC of the match. This time Harmanpreet was impeccable with his dragflick, making sure he converted to give India the equaliser. (PTI)
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