India suffered a 2-4 defeat against England in their second Pool D match of the men’s Hockey World Cup here on Sunday, leaving the Harmanpreet Singh-led side needing at least a draw against Pakistan to reach the next round.
India, who had beaten Wales 3-1 in their opener, led 2-1 at half-time after goals from Harmanpreet Singh and Dilpreet Singh.
However, England completely dominated the third quarter, scoring twice before adding another in the final period to seal a convincing victory.
Nicholas Bandaruk scored twice for England, while Stuart Rushmere and Henry Croft were the other scorers.
India Lose Control After Break
England opened the scoring in the 14th minute when Bandaruk finished after Rushmere created the opportunity.
India responded quickly, with Harmanpreet equalising in the 17th minute through a powerful penalty-corner drag-flick.
The Indian pressure continued and Dilpreet put them ahead in the 25th minute after a fine attacking move involving Hardik Singh and Abhishek.
India held the lead until half-time but struggled to cope with England’s intensity after the interval.
Rushmere levelled in the 39th minute with a composed solo finish before Croft completed England’s comeback four minutes later.
Bandaruk then converted a penalty corner in the 55th minute to complete his brace and seal the win.
Pakistan Clash Now Decisive
England now lead Pool D with six points from two matches, while India remain second with three points.
Pakistan and Wales have one point each after their draw earlier in the day.
India must avoid defeat against Pakistan on Wednesday to qualify for the next round. A loss would eliminate them from the World Cup.
The top two teams from the pool will advance.
India earned several penalty corners in the closing stages against England but failed to convert them, while defensive lapses and poor possession during the third quarter ultimately proved decisive.
The Harmanpreet-led side will now have to regroup quickly before facing arch-rivals Pakistan on August 19 in their final Pool D fixture.
Discussion about this post