Paris, July 30 (UNI) Yves-du-Manoir Stadium witnessed an electrifying clash on Tuesday, as the Indian men’s hockey team carved out a 2-0 triumph over Ireland, thereby surging to the top of Pool B in the Olympics on Tuesday.
In a display of sheer prowess and unyielding determination, Indian captain Harmanpreet Singh rose to the occasion, striking twice within the first 20 minutes.
The first goal came from a penalty spot at the 11th minute, a moment that silenced the Irish supporters. Just eight minutes later, Harmanpreet found the back of the net again, this time from a penalty corner, extending his tally to an impressive four goals in the ongoing Games.
The contest was tightly fought, with India narrowly edging possession at 51-49. However, it was the Indians’ sharpness in attack that made the difference. With 18 attacking circle penetrations compared to Ireland’s 16, India proved to be the more clinical side. The Tokyo 2020 bronze medallists displayed their dominance early on, putting Ireland on the back foot with relentless pressure.
Despite a spirited fightback in the second half, the 11th-ranked Irish team failed to break through India’s formidable defence. The Indians, resolute and unyielding, held their ground, sealing a well-deserved victory and sending a powerful message to their Olympic rivals.
