Paris Olympics: India ends 52-year wait with historic victory over Australia in men's hockey

Paris Oympics 2024: Indian men’s hockey team, led by skipper Harmanpreet Singh, defeated Tokyo Games silver medallists Australia 3-2 in their final Pool B match on Friday. This is India's first Olympic win over Australia since the 1972 Munich Games.

Stellar performance in Pool match

Before facing Australia, India had already secured a spot in the quarterfinals. The team put on a dominant performance against the Kookaburras. India showcased their attacking power and solid defense throughout the match. India seemed to save their best for last, as they launched an aggressive campaign right from the start.

 Key moments of the match

Abhishek opened the scoring for India in the 12th minute, capitalizing on a rebound after a saved attempt by Lalit. Skipper Harmanpreet Singh added to the tally with two goals in the 13th and 33rd minutes, one from a penalty corner, beating Australia’s goalkeeper Andrew Charter with a powerful flick. Tom Craig (25th) and Blake Govers (55th) were the goal scorers for Australia.

Breaking the 52-Year Wait!

Celebrating our first win against Australia in the Olympics since 1972!

This victory is for every Indian.

Let's keep the momentum, let's keep the adrenaline!

Onto the Quarter Finals 🔥

FT:
India 🇮🇳 3 - 2 🇳🇿 Australia
Abhishek 12'
Harmanpreet… pic.twitter.com/iHDKbHxuXz

— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) August 2, 2024

Defensive resilience

Veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, playing his last international tournament, was instrumental in India’s defense, making crucial saves to thwart Australia’s attempts. His performance was key to maintaining India's lead throughout the match.

Standing tall against pressure

India maintained their lead with robust defense and strategic play, despite Australia’s efforts to fight back. In the second quarter, Australia reduced the deficit with a goal from Tom Craig, but India managed to hold their ground.

Vice-captain Hardik Singh was pivotal in the midfield, consistently feeding the forwards and maintaining pressure on the Australian defense. India’s defense, led by Sreejesh, stood firm, withstanding multiple penalty corners and offensive pushes from Australia.

Historic victory over Aussies

India's win over Australia solidifies their position in Pool B, likely finishing second with nine points behind Belgium, who are yet to play Argentina. The victory not only boosts India’s morale as they move into the quarterfinals but also ends a long-standing wait for Olympic triumph against Australia.