Alexander Hendrickx scored two goals as India faced a 4-2 defeat against Belgium in the FIH Men’s Pro League match held in Rourkela. This loss marks India’s third consecutive defeat in this leg of the league, following an 8-0 loss to Argentina in the previous game. Belgium had previously won against India with a score of 3-1 in their first encounter in this leg.
Belgium dominated the game from the start, with Hendrickx leading the charge by scoring two goals early on, supported by goals from Labouchere and de Sloover. Despite India’s improved defensive performance in the second half, goals from Lalage and captain Harmanpreet Singh were not sufficient to overcome the early lead established by Belgium.
Belgium capitalized on their momentum early in the game, converting penalty corners to take a commanding lead. India struggled to break through the Belgian defense, with their only goals coming in the second quarter from Lalage and Harmanpreet Singh. Despite India’s efforts to narrow the gap in the later stages of the match, Belgium’s strong defense secured them the victory.
India will face Argentina in their final match of the Rourkela leg on Sunday at 7:30 PM IST.
