Amsterdam, June 9, 2025 – The Indian men’s hockey team fell agonisingly short once again, succumbing 3–2 to the Netherlands in a pulsating FIH Pro League encounter at Wagener Stadion – their second defeat to the Dutch in just three days.
First Half: Indian Press, Breakthrough, But Replies Came Swiftly
India began with intent, registering nine circle entries in the opening quarter—their best start of the European tour so far. While early chances by Abhishek and Shilanand Lakra went begging, the persistence paid off. In the 20th minute, Abhishek, marking his 100th appearance for India, gratefully tucked away a precise pass from Lakra to blast India into a 1–0 lead .
Yet the Dutch answered swiftly. Two minutes later, undeterred pressure from Thierry Brinkman led to a lucky deflection off an Indian stick, placing a perfectly-timed pass for Thijs van Dam to level the score .
Third Quarter: Dutch Take Charge
The Netherlands seized control shortly after the break. Their relentless buildup culminated in a deflected strike from Tjep Hoedemakers in the 33rd minute, completing a clinical team move and nudging ahead 2–1 . Though India rattled off several penalty corners through the quarter’s latter stages, conversion proved elusive.
Final Moments: Jugraj Levels, But Janssen Strikes Late
Spirit never wavered for India. In the 54th minute, Jugraj Singh finally broke through, scoring from a penalty corner to restore parity at 2–2 . However, heartbreak struck again: with just three minutes remaining, Jip Janssen unleashed a powerful drag-flick from a Dutch set-piece to seal a dramatic 3–2 win .
Star of the Show: Derck de Vilder
Despite the loss, the Indians were well-matched. Derck de Vilder earned “Player of the Match” honours for his instrumental role in the Dutch win .
Match Snapshot
Team Goalscorers
India Abhishek (20′, 100th cap), Jugraj Singh (54′, PC) Netherlands Thijs van Dam (22′), Tjep Hoedemakers (33′), Jip Janssen (57′, PC)
India’s notable penalty corner tally (nine) was overshadowed by a conversion rate of just one goal .
Reflections & What’s Next
India will rue missed opportunities—especially on penalty corners and the lack of killer instinct in the dying moments.
A solid defensive effort couldn’t make up for errors at crucial moments.
Next up, India face Argentina in Amsterdam on Wednesday (June 11), looking to bounce back .
Bigger Picture
This match cements the Netherlands’ grip at the top of the Pro League standings, while India remain in striking distance at fourth place . With World Cup qualification still on the line, every point in this fiercely competitive league counts.
Final Word
Despite spirited play and early promise, India let slip another late defeat. The sting of conceding in final minutes will linger, but the positives—pressing intensity, set-piece chances, and veteran impact—offer plenty to build on. With Argentina next up, the Men in Blue have little time to regroup—and much to play forever.
Discussion about this post