Did India Suffer a Narrow Defeat Against Belgium 2-3 in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling encounter at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, the Indian men's hockey team battled hard but succumbed to a narrow 2-3 defeat against Belgium. Key players like Abhishek and Shilanand Lakra managed to score for India, but Belgium's timely goals proved decisive. With the next match against Malaysia on the horizon, India's resilience will be tested once again.
Key Takeaways
- India's strong start but inability to capitalize on opportunities.
- Pawan's goalkeeping was crucial in maintaining India's chances.
- Penalty corners played a significant role in the match's outcome.
- Shilanand Lakra's late goal provided a glimmer of hope.
- Upcoming matches will be crucial for India's morale and standing.
Ipoh (Malaysia), Nov 25 (NationPress) The Indian men's hockey team showcased a valiant effort but ultimately fell 2-3 to Belgium in a rain-affected match of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup that was rescheduled for Tuesday. Abhishek (33') and Shilanand Lakra (57') scored for India, while Roman Duvekot (17', 57') and Nicolas De Kerpel (45') netted for Belgium.
India started with determination, maintaining distance from Belgium while enduring early pressure. The Indian goalkeeper Pawan was pivotal, making crucial saves as India gradually found their rhythm. Belgium's first significant opportunity arose from a penalty corner ten minutes into the match, followed by another, but the Indian defense held firm, ensuring they remained level at the end of the first quarter.
In the second quarter, India pressed forward, creating seamless passes in search of an opening. However, Belgium struck first against the run of play, with Roman Duvekot breaking through Pawan's defenses to score at 17'. An immediate response from Dilpreet Singh was thwarted as his goal was disallowed for dangerous play. India continued to push but could not equalize, trailing 1-0 at halftime.
Returning to the field with vigor in the second half, India found their equalizer as Abhishek (33') completed a well-crafted move. Buoyed by this, India intensified their attack, but Belgium retook the lead with Nicolas De Kerpel converting from a penalty corner (45').
Belgium soon widened their lead with Roman Duvekot scoring again (46'), giving them a cushion. India sought a swift response and nearly scored from a penalty corner with less than ten minutes remaining. With time running out, Shilanand Lakra (57') found the net following an excellent pass from Rabichandra Singh, igniting a flicker of hope for India. In the closing moments, Mohit HS made a remarkable save to deny Belgium a fourth goal, keeping India in contention, but the equalizer remained elusive in this fiercely contested match.
India's next clash is against Malaysia on November 26 at 17:30 IST. All matches of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2025 are being broadcast live on FanCode.
Point of View
This match serves as a reminder of the relentless spirit and determination that characterizes Indian sports. The close scoreline reflects the competitive nature of international hockey, and while this defeat is disheartening, it also fuels anticipation for the upcoming matches. The focus now shifts to redemption against Malaysia.
NationPress
25/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match between India and Belgium?
India lost to Belgium with a score of 2-3.
Who scored for the Indian team in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup?
Abhishek and Shilanand Lakra scored for India.
When is India's next match in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup?
India will play against Malaysia on November 26 at 17:30 IST.
Where is the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup being held?
The tournament is being held in Ipoh, Malaysia.
Which players scored for Belgium in the match?
Roman Duvekot and Nicolas De Kerpel scored for Belgium.
