LUCKNOW: Favourites India overcame a goal deficit to edge out Spain 2-1 thereby sealing a semi-final spot in the men’s Junior Hockey World Cup, here tonight.
The hosts will meet Australia in the semi-final tomorrow.
It was a far from impressive performance by the Indians, who are touted as title contenders as they fumbled in almost all departments of the game.
A packed Major Dhyan Chand Stadium stadium heaved a sigh of relief when Simranjeet Singh (57th) equalised for India after Marc Serrahima gave Spain the lead in the 22nd minute.
The Indians earned as many as nine penalty corners but could utilise just two with Harmanpreet converting the hosts’ eighth set piece in the 66th minute to clinch a last four berth.
By virtue of this win, the Indian colts not only continued their domination over Spain but also managed to avenge their loss against the same opponents in the bronze medal match of the 2005 edition of the World Cup in Rotterdam.
Even though they enjoyed their share of ball possession, Indians looked completely off-colour in the opening half.
There was a distinct lack of co-ordination. There were sloppy mistakes while trapping and releasing the ball during the first half.
The Indian colts though created more openings but Spain utilised the lone opportunity thet got in the first half.
Spain came out with a tight defensive structure and relied on man marking to stop the attacking Indians. (AGENCIES)
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