India secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over World Champions Germany in the FIH Hockey Pro League 2024-25 (Men) at the Kalinga Hockey Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Wednesday. Gurjant Singh’s early goal proved to be the match-winner as India climbed to seventh in the standings.
It was a strong comeback from India after their 4-1 defeat to Germany on Tuesday. Led by Captain Harmanpreet Singh, the Indian defence delivered a solid performance to secure a crucial victory.
India started brightly and took the lead just four minutes into the match. Rajinder Singh’s pass into the circle found Mandeep Singh, whose shot was saved by German goalkeeper Alexander Stadler. However, the loose ball remained in play, allowing an unmarked Gurjant to dive in and sweep it into the empty net, scoring in consecutive matches.
India adopted a half-court press, focusing on defensive solidity while looking to capitalize on German errors. Germany came close to equalizing when Thies Prinz showcased brilliant 3D skills to get past his markers, but Krishan Bahadur Pathak made a sharp save. Florian Sperling then lifted the rebound over the bar.
Germany won a penalty corner just before the end of the first quarter, but Gonzalo Peillat’s drag-flick went wide, keeping India ahead. In the second quarter, Suraj Karkera replaced Pathak in goal, but India’s deep defensive approach ensured he was rarely tested.
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Meanwhile, India looked dangerous on the counter, with Shilanand Lakra, Nilam Sanjeep Xess, and Raj Kumar Pal forcing saves from Stadler. India won three penalty corners late in the half, but Germany held firm.
Germany came out with more intent in the third quarter, forcing Pathak into action in the 32nd minute with an instinctive save to deny Prinz. Moments later, Pathak made another crucial stop to deny Peillat from a penalty corner. Towards the end of the quarter, Stadler pulled off a stunning double save to keep out Sukhjeet Singh and Vivek Sagar Prasad.
Germany increased the pressure in the final quarter, earning a penalty corner in the 46th minute, but Karkera denied Peillat’s drag-flick. India had a chance to double their lead two minutes later, but Amit Rohidas sent his drag-flick wide.
With time running out, Germany intensified their attack. They won a penalty corner with four minutes left, but Harmanpreet successfully reviewed the decision, overturning it. The Germans then pulled their goalkeeper for an extra outfield player, winning four penalty corners in a row. However, Karkera and the Indian defence held firm to secure a well-deserved win.
This victory marked India’s second win of the season, a crucial result against the reigning world champions.
Also Read: Germany Dominates India 4-1 in FIH Hockey Pro League (Men’s) 2024/25 Clash