The Indian men’s hockey team extended their unbeaten streak at the Paris 2024 Olympics with a decisive 2-0 win against Ireland in their third Pool B match. The match, held at the Stade Yves-du-Manoir on Tuesday, saw Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh score both goals.
The 28-year-old continued his prolific form by netting two first-half goals in the 11th and 19th minutes. His performance at the Paris Olympics has been remarkable, with four goals in three matches, having scored in each game so far.
With two wins and one draw, the Tokyo 2020 bronze medallists have seven points, leading Pool B. Their campaign began with a thrilling 3-2 win over New Zealand, followed by a dramatic 1-1 draw with Argentina.
India, ranked fifth in the world, wasted no time asserting their dominance against the 11th-ranked Ireland. They earned their first penalty corner within two minutes, and Sumit forced a strong save from Irish goalkeeper David Harte shortly thereafter.
Harmanpreet broke the deadlock with a penalty stroke, putting India ahead. The second quarter saw continued Indian pressure. Lalit Upadhyay missed a significant chance, and Manpreet Singh’s shot was saved by Harte. However, Harmanpreet capitalized on the third of consecutive penalty corners with a stunning drag flick, doubling India’s lead.
Ireland’s John McKee created their first solid chance in the 21st minute, but it was squandered. India entered halftime with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
The third quarter saw a more assertive Irish side. Despite their efforts, Indian defenders, including Amit Rohidas and Harmanpreet, thwarted Ireland’s penalty corner attempts. Benjamin Walker, Lee Cole, and Shane O’Donoghue had opportunities but failed to reduce the deficit.
In the final quarter, Ireland maintained their pressure. Cole’s penalty corner shot was saved early in the quarter, and Ireland’s momentum waned after Matthew Nelson received a green card, reducing them to ten men for two minutes. India also saw Harmanpreet sidelined briefly during this period.
Veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, a cornerstone of India’s defense, made a crucial save against Nelson’s attempt in the 55th minute, drawing cheers from the crowd. Ireland’s last opportunity came from a penalty corner just before the final whistle, but India’s defense held firm, securing their second win at Paris 2024.
India’s next challenge will be against the Tokyo 2020 gold medallists, Belgium, in their penultimate group stage match on Thursday. This match is crucial for India as they aim to maintain their unbeaten run and secure a strong position for the knockout stages.
