Rourkela, Feb 15 (NationPress) In a gripping match at the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, India faced a 2-4 defeat against Argentina during the closing game of the Rourkela leg of the FIH Men's Pro League 2025–26 on Sunday. Tadeo Marcucci (28’, 49’) spearheaded the Argentinian offense, netting two goals, while Tomas Domene (18’) and Lucio Mendez (43’) also made crucial contributions. For the Indian side, Aditya Lalage (50’) and Sanjay (59’) found the back of the net in a fiercely contested match.

Argentina dominated possession and created numerous opportunities in the opening quarter, yet India managed to withstand the pressure without conceding. The South American team came close to scoring as early as the third minute when Lucas Martínez attempted to turn the ball in from inside the circle, only to be thwarted by the post.

Indian goalkeeper Suraj Karkera was kept busy, especially at the 10-minute mark when he expertly parried a powerful shot from Tomás Domene. Argentina's relentless pressure resulted in four penalty corners in the first quarter.

India conceded their first goal early in the second quarter due to a penalty corner. Domene utilized the opportunity in the 18th minute to slot it past the Indian goalkeeper, putting Argentina in the lead.

Shortly after, Argentina increased their advantage as India struggled to maintain possession in midfield. Lucas Tosceni sent an accurate aerial ball to Tadeo Marcucci, who unleashed a thunderous strike.

Just before halftime, India had a golden opportunity. A series of quick passes put Aditya Lalage in a threatening position, but his rushed shot went over the post.

Upon returning for the second half, India displayed intent, winning two consecutive penalty corners. However, Captain Harmanpreet Singh was unable to convert as Argentina’s defense held firm.

Argentina soon widened their lead, with Toscani executing a brilliant run to assist Lucio Mendez, who finished with precision to make it 3-0.

In the early moments of the final quarter, India almost reduced the gap when Rajinder made a strong pass from the right, but Karthi Selvam was unable to connect for the tap-in. Argentina then scored their fourth goal during their ninth penalty corner, where Marcucci capitalized on a scramble to score from close range.

Hardik Singh facilitated India’s first goal, using a free hit in the 50th minute to position himself well. Lalage seized the chance for a swift deflection into the net. Just before the end, India was awarded a penalty stroke, and Sanjay executed it with poise, bringing the score to 4-2.