Reeling from a tough 1-5 semi-final loss against defending champions Germany, hosts India will now play for pride in the men’s Junior Hockey World Cup bronze-medal match against two-time champions Argentina. Incidentally, Argentina went down to Spain in a thriller.
For India, the key to redemption will be to quickly shake off the mental toll of the semi-final defeat. The hosts wouldn’t want to disappoint the home crowd and as they eye a podium finish, on Wednesday, at the Mayor Radhakrishnan Hockey Stadium in Chennai.
“Going home empty handed is more painful than this disappointment,” a hopeful PR Sreejesh said after the crushing semi-final loss. “One simple thing – there is one more match. You can still win a medal.”
The home side that netted 29 goals in the group stage must rediscover their attacking game and finishing touches. They also need to tighten their fragile defence, which was repeatedly exploited in the semi-final.
For India, the performance of goalkeeper Princedeep Singh has been a standout throughout the World Cup, especially his heroic efforts in the shootout against Belgium. His performance will be pivotal against the tough Argentinian side, which rely mostly on Penalty Corners in dying moments. Roshan Kujur, Dilraj Singh, Manmeet Singh, and Arshdeep Singh have shown steel in the midfield, while Shardanand Tiwari has converted a few good chances from penalty corners.
Argentina, who lifted their last World Cup trophy in Bhubaneswar, will offer a well structured and disciplined defensive challenge. Coached by Juan Gilardi, the South American side is known for its aggressive defence and exquisite control in midfield. The South American colts prefer body-on-body defending, hate to lose possession and don’t believe in pressing hard and try to control the game from the midfield.
For India, the biggest challenge will be to breach inside the striking circle, create penalty corner opportunities, and stop Bruno Correa, who is leading the goal counts for Argentina with 6 goals.
The Indian colts will look to clinch their first ever bronze medal. Following the basics, ensuring clinical finishing after circle penetration, and maintaining solid defensive containment will be the key.
“Tomorrow is a do-or-die match,” said PR Sreejesh. “The players must go out there and give their 100%. Focusing on the basics will be key. There will be a big crowd who will expect us to win, but the team needs to stay in the present moment. They can draw inspiration from the senior team’s Olympic experiences to see how losing a semifinal and coming back to win bronze makes a huge difference. The boys know this, and I believe they will rise to the occasion.”
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